Gustavo Assunção is the new signing for Apollon. He has arrived in Limassol to boost the team’s midfield. The Brazilian midfielder shares his first thoughts, playing style, and goals while wearing the Apollon jersey.
Here’s his full interview on Apollon’s official website:
Welcome to Apollon! What are your first thoughts after joining the club?
I’m really happy to be here. I’ve seen the club, the facilities, and met the team. I also met the coach, president, and staff. Everyone feels like family. This gives me a great feeling.
What do you think about the club?
Everything is top-notch. The facilities, training center, stadium—everything is excellent. The president and coach trust me. I’m very excited about this project.
Has the coach talked about your role on the field?
Not yet. I’ll do my best to help the team reach its goals. That’s what matters most to me.
What made you accept Apollon’s offer?
I spoke with the director and coach who explained their plans for the club. I saw the team’s results and their style of play. They’re winning matches, and I want to help keep that going.
Why did you leave your previous team?
I saw a great and ambitious project here. It’s a big club with big goals, and it’s a fantastic chance for me to grow and help achieve those goals. We want to fight for titles and play in Europe.
You were once seen as a rising talent with great potential. What do you think led to that success?
I think it was due to many factors. I played with Brazil’s national teams alongside stars like Vinicius and Rodrigo. At Famalicão, I had a big role from a young age, even as captain. The club and coach believed in me, which boosted my confidence. Age affects how people see you, but back then I was in great form. Now, I feel like a different player—more mature and experienced with a better understanding of the game.
What did you learn from your time at Galatasaray and in Portugal?
I loved my time at Galatasaray—the city and its people were amazing. Sometimes things don’t go as planned in football, but every experience helped me grow. At AVS, it was also an ambitious project with big names, but that’s football.
Do you think these experiences will help you adjust quickly in Cyprus?
Yes, definitely! Plus, my family is with me, so settling in won’t be an issue.
What did you know about Apollon and Cypriot football before coming here?
I knew some players who played in Cyprus like Pepe, Anderson, Vana, and Marques who were my teammates before. It’s been years since we last spoke, so I’m happy to reconnect with some of them. But I was aware of the league and its level.
How did Pedro Marques greet you?
He was really happy to see me! He joked that I didn’t call him before coming over. He’s now a captain on the team and very important. I hope to help him score more goals.
How would you describe your playing style?
I’m a player who likes to control the game. I enjoy having the ball, controlling the pace, and making both long and short passes. I defend intensely and aggressively while helping my team. My job is to make the team play better.
Do you prefer playing as a ‘6’ or an ‘8’?
I’m comfortable in both positions—there’s no problem for me.
If you had to describe yourself in three words?
Son of God.
What are your personal goals with Apollon?
I don’t like setting big personal goals. I take it game by game, day by day. The most important thing is winning the next game and then the one after that.
Why did you choose number 12?
Because of my father! He wore number 12 at Atletico Madrid, and I’ve always played with that number except for one season when I wore number 6.
What message do you want to send to Apollon fans?
I will work hard and fight with all my strength to help the club succeed.
