“I saw Bulgarians put water instead of pee into the test cup. I did the same thing. Doctor: I hydrated, but next time put some hot water.”

You ended up accepting the invitation from Ludogorets Razgrad from Bulgaria, why?
First I refused. They offered me a salary, and I told them that I would not go for that amount. It wasn’t my intention to go, I didn’t want to leave the house. That’s why I asked them for an amount thinking they wouldn’t give it. But they called to say they gave me what I asked for. I found myself in a situation where I had to go. I had a week where I didn’t eat, because it was really against my will, I really didn’t want to go. I was afraid of not adjusting. I replied that I would not go.

How did they react?
They were upset, of course, because they had agreed to what I asked, and they felt I was making fun of them. However, this situation was left in the background with Aruka. I went to the Algarve on vacation and my wife told me: “I think you’re stupid for not accepting Bulgaria’s proposal. Besides, we now have a little daughter. You’re about to turn 28, you need to start thinking about the financial part too.” He hit me again. I had already turned it down two or three weeks ago, but called the manager. I told him I was sorry and asked if there was still a possibility to go to Bulgaria. Fortunately, it went well and I went.

Alone or with wife and daughter?
We were the three. Carolina was only three months old.

What was the first impact?
I have a picture in my head of when I landed, I looked out the plane window and saw Sofia. I was alone, I was going to sign. It’s a very pretty town, but whoever arrives and sees all those very old, very old, broken buildings, it’s a terrible picture to me, I just thought, I’m going to be here for a couple of years, at least. When I entered the hotel, I went upstairs, had a panoramic view of the city and spent about 20 minutes looking outside, thinking, crying, scared, but at the same time, I was prepared. It was a whirlwind of emotions.

How was your English?
He was very limited, and only knew very basic things. Sarah speaks good English. But with the need, I learned.

Does your wife work?
Yes, she has a primary teacher course, with some kind of physical education. He even taught classes, but at that time he was working in a gym in Espinho, and he left to go with me.