Vito Mannone is a popular man around Minnesota United’s training ground these days. After a recent practice, Mannone is one of the last players to leave the pitch. Engaged in a friendly match of soccer-tennis with teammates, he volleys and heads the ball over the net with a touch as skilled as any outfield player. After securing a victory in straight sets, Mannone joined MLSsoccer.com to talk about his time so far in Minnesota.

The Italian goalkeeper, currently on loan with the Loons from English Championship club Reading, has been a key player during Minnesota’s current seven-game winning streak in competitive fixtures. During that span, United have advanced to the semifinals of the U.S. Open Cup and sit 4th in the Western Conference, currently on track for their best finish in MLS. Mannone has helped hold opponents to just eight goals while the Loons have scored 27 of their own.