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Zachary Athekame has revealed a bit more about his preferred role, while also speaking about the emotions of joining AC Milan.
Milan were linked with a number of different right-backs during the summer window, from Guela Doue to Marc Pubill. However, it was Athekame’s name that emerged almost from nowhere and then quickly got to the finish line.
After reaching an agreement with Young Boys at around €10m for the 20-year-old, the Rossoneri announced the signing of Athekame last Friday morning. He was on the bench for Sunday’s Coppa Italia win over Bari and greeted the fans on the field before the game, but didn’t make his debut.
Athekame addresses the media
Athekame was present at Casa Milan on Thursday afternoon for his official unveiling press conference alongside another new defensive signing in Koni De Winter. His comments were transcribed by MilanNews.
What first struck you about Milan?
“I think we all know the club’s history. I think it’s a huge club, and that interested me, as did the project. I want to give 100% for the team and improve. I think that’s the most important thing.”
Does seeing a star like Tassotti inspire you?
“Yes, of course. As said, I’m surrounded by fantastic players, and that pushes me to give 100%, both in matches and in training.”
With you, will Milan also try to attack on the right? Do you consider yourself an attacking or deensive player?
“I think we work well in all areas in training. It’s true that we had a very good combination on the left. As for me, I really like going forward, but other than that, I can say that as a team, we work well on both flanks.”
What your best characteristics?
“I basically play in a four-man defence. Now, whether it’s a four or a five, I’m available. I prefer to play as a wing-back in a 3-5-2. I’m here to be at the coach’s disposal. If he puts me in a three-man defence, I’ll be available, just as I will be in other positions.”
When was your first contact with Milan? What was your reaction?
“My reaction was very strong, it was a very strong emotion. Of course, you have to stay clear-headed, but I was amazed. But I’m here to work and get to work. It was about three weeks ago, I don’t remember the date. And obviously, I was very happy.”
Is there more pride or nerves about playing at San Siro?
“I don’t think there’s any nerves. As we all know, Milan is a historic club, with a wonderful stadium, which inspires you to give 400%, and this can only bring added motivation to the players.”
Allegri is a coach that places a lot of importance in the defence…
“The coach and I work hard on tactics and defence, and we’re doing it well. We know the defence is very important, and Allegri insists on it a lot. Everyone at Milanello impressed me. They have fantastic players with enormous experience, so my impression was positive.”
Who were your childhood idols? And what were your first impressions of Italian football after the Champions League matches against Atalanta and Inter?
“I played against Inter and Atalanta. When you play against teams of this calibre, they’re ready, they bring intensity, and that impressed me. I take a lot of inspiration from Dani Alves, as well as many other players who play on the right flank.”
How is Swiss football developing?
“The Swiss league is made up of many players who play, go abroad, and take the next step. When you’re young, you play a lot and then improve and move on to another league, just like what happened to me.”
What was it like moving into the Milan dressing room, so full of champions? What kind of advice did they give you?
“Everyone welcomed me very well. I think the dressing room is very close-knit, and players of this calibre are a role models. I’m very happy to play with them.”
What has your journey given you, as a player and a person?
“I think it’s an inspiring journey, which gives me a lot of desire and motivation. It’s a great challenge to be at a club like Milan, and I’m ready to take it on and give it my all.”
As a full-back playing at a high level, who do you look up to? What level do you want to reach?
“I have good records in this regard. However, I don’t really like comparing myself to others. I look up to very strong players, but I prefer to focus on myself. As I was saying, it’s important to look up to this player, but it’s also important to focus on yourself.”
What aims were mentioned in the dressing room? Have you set any of your own?
“Milan is a historic club, with an important history. We have goals, of course; we’re a very big and prestigious club. I think it’s important to focus on the present and not the future, and the important thing will be to focus on the first few games, on the present.”
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