The 21-year-old took his league tally to seven goals in seven appearances against Sassuolo, moving to the top of the scoring charts after a performance that confirmed his growing influence in Frosinone’s attack.
Speaking to Radio Deejay, Raimondo said he was pleased with his form but knew there was still plenty to improve.
“I always try to give my best, follow the manager’s ideas and help the team. Obviously, scoring goals is always pleasing, but a striker lives for goals. I’m happy with this moment, although there is still a lot of work to do,” he said.
Asked which of his three goals against Sassuolo he liked most, Raimondo chose the last one. He also explained the double feint that helped him beat the goalkeeper for his opening goal.
“It was to avoid looking like an idiot. I saw that the goalkeeper had gone to ground and, just to make sure, I did another one to be certain,” he said.
Raimondo was equally clear about the influence Alvini has had on his development since their paths crossed at Frosinone. The striker recalled a contrasting season at Ternana, where he was impressive in the first half of the campaign before struggling after the break.
“When I met Alvini here at Frosinone, I have to say he changed me as a player, because he gets on at me in every training session and I have found a certain consistency,” Raimondo said.
“I think that is fundamental. Everyone can have a good spell, but consistency is what matters for a player. I have also gained more experience, and I think that has helped me.”
The forward also explained how he tries to anticipate loose balls and rebounds around the penalty area, rather than giving up on attacks that appear to have ended.
“I always believe, even with balls that might seem useless, because I am expecting a mistake, a rebound or the ball to be left there. I think I have that instinct and I try to improve it, because that can be improved too,” he said.
Raimondo named former Napoli striker Edinson Cavani as his childhood idol, recalling how the Uruguayan’s work rate and hunger impressed him.
“I watched Napoli matches because I supported them, and I loved Cavani for the way he tracked back, his hunger and his aggression,” he said.
Asked about the hope of reaching Italy’s senior national team, Raimondo kept his answer brief: “I hope so with all my heart.”