Bartesaghi happy after successful first start of the season: “Nothing to lose, but a lot to prove”

Davide Bartesaghi was delighted to make his first start of the season for AC Milan, and stressed the need to work even harder.

Milan avoided any shocks on Tuesday night as they eased past Lecce, winning 3-0 at San Siro to reach the last 16 of the Coppa Italia. The goals were scored by Santiago Gimenez, Christopher Nkunku and Christian Pulisic, all coming after a red card for the visitors less than 20 minutes in.

One of the novelties of a half-rotated line-up was that Bartesaghi got the nod to play wing-back. His performance was exceptional too as every delivery into the box from the academy product was right on the money, especially the assist for Gimenez’s opening goal.

‘We’re just getting started’

Based on last night’s evidence, he is a more than capable deputy to Pervis Estupinan, but bigger tests await. Bartesaghi spoke to Milan TV after the full-time whistle at San Siro to analyse what was a successful night all round for him and the team.

Congratulations on your first start this season!

“Thank you. Thank you, we’re just getting started. We played a great game, we got off to a good start, which wasn’t something we could have taken for granted, and that’s why we started off well, opening up the field and closing it out right away.”

Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images

How far along are you in your development?

“I’ve always felt at ease at this club, with the staff, my team-mates, everyone. I’m very happy. I’ve always kept working, and I’ll keep doing so because I’m only just starting out. I have nothing to lose, but a lot to prove.”

Allegri, his staff and Modric – among others – what are they giving you with their experience?

“Both the coaches, like Corradi, who I also had with the national team and who knows me a little better than the others, and the players, I get along very well too. We’re always close, always together, we talk, which is essential for building a team.

“Of course, from people like Modric, but also Rafa [Leao] and even Gabbia, who is very close to me, I’m always sure to steal something from them; they have a lot of experience and it will help me grow.”

How eager are you to be a part of the U21 national team?

“I’m really happy about the call-up to the U21s. I couldn’t wait to play, but I had a knee problem that kept me from doing so. But yes, I want to prove I deserve a chance there too.”