After a short spell at Olympiacos, the Brazilian attacker says Parma offered the right project to relaunch his Serie A career
Back in Italy and eager to prove his worth, Gabriel Strefezza is embracing a fresh chapter with Parma. Speaking to Sky Sport, the attacking midfielder opened up about his return from Olympiacos, his ambitions, and his growing chemistry with striker Mateo Pellegrino.
“I Needed Minutes and the Right Project”
Strefezza described his time in Greece as the realization of a childhood dream — particularly the chance to compete in the Champions League. But football, as always, is about opportunity and continuity.
“Olympiacos was a dream because of the Champions League — something you imagine as a kid,” he said. “But when the chance came to join a project like Parma’s, I felt it was the right moment. I needed to play more and show my value. This was the right environment to come back to Italy.”
Familiar with the demands of Serie A, Strefezza believes Parma’s youthful squad has the tools to grow quickly. “It’s a young team, full of talent. We enjoy playing together, trying to create and score. We’ve picked up two huge wins recently, but there’s still a lot of work ahead.”
Freedom Under Cuesta
The Brazilian also praised head coach Carlos Cuesta, highlighting the tactical freedom he’s been given.
“The coach asks me to stay free, to play between the lines, to help teammates and move into spaces. I try to do that as best I can,” Strefezza explained. “We’re working well both defensively and offensively.”
Looking ahead to a challenging clash at San Siro against AC Milan, he made Parma’s intentions clear. “There’s huge motivation in playing at San Siro. We’re preparing to compete and try to steal points. We want to go there and try to win.”
Pellegrino: “An Animal in the Box”
One player Strefezza singled out was striker Mateo Pellegrino, whose physical presence and link-up play have impressed him.
“He’s very strong,” Strefezza said. “He’s excellent at holding the ball up. When you play one-twos with him, he always gives it back perfectly. And inside the box, he’s an animal. In the air, he wins everything.”
For Parma, the combination of Strefezza’s creativity and Pellegrino’s physicality could prove decisive in the weeks ahead. For Strefezza personally, it’s about rediscovering rhythm — and making sure his second Serie A chapter lasts longer than the first departure.
