Persija Jakarta’s Brazilian-born defender, Otavio Dutra, has taken on a surprising new role at the club – that of a translator. The 37-year-old player is now requesting a salary increase as he finds himself frequently translating for the club’s new coach, Angelo Alessio, who hails from Italy.
In a recent Instagram post by @persija, Dutra was seen standing alongside Alessio as he relayed the coach’s instructions to his teammates. Following the post, Dutra humorously commented that his improving language skills should warrant a pay raise, referring to himself as a ‘top translator’.
When asked about his comment, Dutra clarified that it was made in jest, explaining that he has always assisted foreign coaches wherever he has played. The dedicated player went on to disclose that he has been proficient in Indonesian since 2011, and has assisted coaches and players from various corners of the globe, including Brazil, Argentina, Europe, and Asia.
Not only has Dutra lent his language expertise to the club, but he has also been providing assistance to fellow foreign players in the team, such as Marco Motta from Italy and Yann Motta from Brazil. This additional responsibility has led to some amusing moments for Dutra, who revealed that he has even spoken Indonesian in his sleep, much to the amusement of his wife.
Dutra’s request for a pay increase was made in good humor, with him admitting that the idea was actually suggested by his teammates and even the coach himself. Despite the lighthearted nature of his comment, it sheds light on the often overlooked contributions made by players off the field.
The Brazilian defender, who was born in Fortaleza, has certainly proven himself to be a valuable asset to Persija Jakarta in more ways than one. His dedication to helping his teammates and the coaching staff transcend language barriers is a testament to his professionalism and commitment to the club.
While it may seem unconventional for a professional footballer to take on the role of a translator, Dutra’s willingness to go the extra mile for the benefit of the team should be commended. His versatility and proactive approach in facilitating effective communication among the team members highlight the importance of soft skills in the world of sports.
As Persija Jakarta prepares for the upcoming 2021 season, Dutra’s unique contributions serve as a reminder that the value of a player extends beyond the field. It is players like Dutra who exemplify the spirit of teamwork and camaraderie, showcasing that success on the pitch is not solely determined by goals scored, but also by the intangible qualities that unite a team.
In conclusion, Otavio Dutra’s unexpected transition from defender to translator is a testament to his unwavering commitment to the team. His request for a raise, although made in jest, brings to light the significant off-field contributions made by players in the world of professional sports. As the new season approaches, Dutra’s story serves as a reminder that true teamwork knows no bounds, transcending language and cultural barriers for the collective success of the team.
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