FC Pune City will face a buoyant Bengaluru FC side in Hero Indian Super League (ISL) 2017-18 at the Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex Stadium in Pune on Thursday. The Stallions will be relying on the likes of Uruguayan Emiliano Alfaro and Brazilian Marcelinho for a change in fortunes in Pune having lost two of their opening three matches at home. Another Brazilian Jonatan Lucca, who has been a part of Pune since Hero ISL 2016, spoke to indiansuperleague.com in an exclusive interview ahead of the match against Bengaluru. Here are the excerpts.

How did you enter the world of football and how has your journey been so far?

I started playing when I was eight years. I played football in my city with my school. My first professional team was AS Roma in Italy when I was 18 years old. Football is everything for me.

What are your hobbies when you get some time off?

I like to play Football Manager on my computer. When I’m holidaying, I like to stay at home, do some barbeque with my family, go to the beach, that’s how I try to enjoy my life.

Any word on the atmosphere around the various stadiums you’ve visited?

I think India has a big atmosphere in all cultures. Kolkata, Goa and Kerala are very good. I think in the next few years it will be better.

According to you, which player from the current squad has the potential to make it big in the future?

We have a lot of young players who are very good here. I think Ashique (Ashique Kuruniyan is one). Everyone here has a chance to be a good footballer.

You’ve heard the fans chant your name every game, do you have a message for them?

Keep believing in me. When I go on the field I have my name on the jersey. I give my best for everyone who watch the game and say my name in the stands and thanks for support. I love you guys.