From
MilanNews:
What emotions did you have at the rally yesterday?
"During Milan-Chelsea in the Champions League I was impressed by the clamour at the stadium. The support of the fans is extraordinary, I saw great passion."
At Milan you met Tomori again. What did he tell you about Milan?
"When things started to evolve I talked a lot with Tomori. He told me I would have loved it, the fans are fantastic and always support you. I know the long history of Milan. I still don't speak Italian, so Tomori helped me with that too. I hope to learn Italian soon.
Is there any Rossoneri midfielder from the past that you like?
"I loved seeing how Kaka played. I don't want to compare myself to him, but his way of handling the ball is an inspiration. Pirlo was also an extraordinary player, although a bit different from me."
You will wear the number 8 jersey...
"I know the weight of this number at Milan. It shows my ambition."
What are Milan's goals this season?
"This season we have to work to always improve. We will have to try to win."
With Sarri you did very well....
"The season with Sarri was the best from a numbers point of view, the role I played with him was my favourite. During my career I have played in different roles, but in that one I felt more comfortable (as a midfielder, ed.), in which I can make the biggest contribution to the team, and coming to AC Milan to play in my prefe
Had Milan already sought you out with Maldini and Massara?
"When I played against AC Milan in the Champions League, after that match, Maldini had told me he was impressed by my performance. From there this possibility was born and has become more and more concrete."
Have you heard from Pulisic?
"Pulisic will arrive tomorrow. We have already spoken, he will give us a big hand. I told him that he has to give everything because he is among the best in the world."
You arrive in a midfield that needs to be rebuilt....
"Yes, I am ready. I had some injuries, now I feel good, to help the team and also be a leader."
What can the decision to come to AC Milan bring you?
"I'm really happy to be here. I want to contribute to the team. I spent many years at Chelsea, but in the last few years I was satisfied with my contribution, I failed to excel and so I think this was the right time to change team and be able to make my contribution."
In what position does Pioli want to use you?
"Before signing I also spoke to the coach about my role. At Chelsea I played in other roles. I always try to give my best. I am really happy to be here."
Why did you choose AC Milan?
"Milan's history, there have been so many great players here. I couldn't say no to Milan. I can grow a lot here. A new adventure begins and it's a great opportunity for me."
Do you aim to return to the national team like Tomori?
"If Tomori continues like this he will return to the national team. It is a goal to return to the national team, but now I only want to think about Milan. At the moment the national team is not my priority.
What are the differences between Premier and Serie A?
"I will tell you in a few months. I want to bring my physicality here."
Who is your favourite coach?
"I had several at Chelsea of good coaches, maybe the one who gave me the most was Sarri. I have great respect for him. I did well with him."
How many goals would you like to score?
"I want to play in a role that allows me to score more goals. I want to make my contribution and reach important numbers, but I don't want to put pressure on myself."
Are you good on set balls?
"I'm tall, I'm a very physical player, so I can also contribute on set-pieces."
Could Milan switch from 4-2-3-1 to 4-3-3?
"I think the role I'm best in is in a three-man midfield. I feel comfortable. If the 4-3-3 is chosen I'll be happy, but I adapt to what the coach chooses."
