Carlos Eduardo is undeniably the man of Saturday’s victory against Lorient (3-1). With a penalty earned, an assist, and a goal, the Brazilian, on loan from FC Porto, led his team to an important win. The Nice playmaker shares his first five months in red and black and talks about the second half of the season.
Carlos, how do you assess your first part of the season in the Nice jersey?
It’s been a very good experience so far. I’m learning a lot from the staff. The coach explains the game well. Ligue 1 is a more watched championship than Portugal’s, more known in Europe. Here, with playing time, I think I can progress.
Are you satisfied with your performances?
I think of the team first. I don’t really like to highlight myself even after the five goals at Guingamp. The team went through a difficult period even though we won in Caen.
How do you explain this “poor form” after Guingamp?
I didn’t experience any physical drop; I felt in shape, even before the break. I think there were more expectations around me after my match in Guingamp. We shouldn’t forget that I’m a midfielder. Maybe I didn’t have the opportunity to score more and provide decisive passes.
How do you see the second half of the season for Nice?
We will have to earn more points than in the first-leg matches. We need to win more games to climb a few places in the standings.
You are a creator, and yet being a playmaker is not your usual position…
In Brazil and Portugal, I was more of a defensive midfielder-central midfielder, a bit like Niklas Hult today. Here, the coach installed me in a new, more offensive position, and I’m adapting. I’m learning to play behind a striker, finding my bearings with each match.
After six away goals, was scoring at Allianz Riviera a goal?
Of course! I’ve always wanted to score at home and share my joy with all the supporters who encourage us at every match. I was happy to do it on Saturday against Lorient.
Do you have regular contact with Porto to whom you belong?
Yes, I often receive messages. After my five goals at Guingamp, the club called me to congratulate me. It’s a club that remains very close to its loaned players, as does the local press.
Is there an opportunity to continue the adventure with OGC Nice?
That doesn’t depend on me; the two clubs need to reach an agreement. We’ll see at the end of the season; for now, I’m focused on my game.
Photo credit and more information on www.ogcnice.com
