Ball control, becoming a DJ, first day in St. Petersburg and an accountant’s degree in the full version of fans’ interview with Zenit’s midfielder, Axel Witsel.
— Have you been to the sports academy that you built in Liége?
● Yes, of course. it’s not exactly a school, but a camp where you can go for a couple of weeks. My father has been more active with it and the last time that I was there was in May. We made a separate program in my name. We’ll have another one next May too. Only Belgium teams have been there so far but I’m always waiting for Russian players as well — there’s a hope that this will be an international camp.
— How did you meet Rafaella? Have you been to Romania?
● It’s simple really. Yes, she was born in Romania but when she was two years old when she moved to Belgium. That’s where we met. We got married in June and in October we will have been dating for six years. I was in Romania in December.
— What age did you start having a strong shot?
● Oh that’s a good question. I don’t even know. Maybe when I was 20. I was just growing up to that point, my body was changing. Before that I was small, but I had a fitness trainer and in the end it worked out.
— Is it possible to learn how to shield the ball with your body like you do, or is it something you were born with?
● I don’t even know. I was always like that, ever since I was a kid — I held the ball and shield it. it’s one of my strong sides — knowing how to use my body. It’s my style, Witsel style.
— Who’s your childhood idol?
● Zidane, always was and always will be! He’s the best!
— Do you know what the fans sing about in the stands?
— I know I little bit, but I don’t understand everything of course. But it’s translated for us so on the whole and I’m in the know.
— Do you remember your first day in St. Petersburg?
● I remember it very well. It was a great day, I was happy that I came. They gave me a really warm welcome.
— What are your hobbies outside of football?
● As far as business or entertainment? Not long ago I bought a DJ turntable. I have a lot of friends who are DJs, so I started to play with it a little bit. For the time being it’s just for me.
— Has Zenit’s tactics changed this season? Has your task changed since Yusupov came?
● Schemes change, but nothing has changed for me. The task is pretty much always one and the same.
Full interview on Zenit.com
