Bartesaghi happy to ‘fulfil my dream’ in derby win: “It means we are a team”

Davide Bartesaghi was one of the key players for AC Milan in their derby win against Inter and afterwards, he shared his emotions in an interview. 

In the days leading up to the game, one of the main starting eleven battles was Bartesaghi vs. Estupinan. The youngster always seemed to be slightly ahead in the race and sure enough, when the starting eleven was confirmed earlier this evening, he was in it.

Most fans would agree the 19-year-old repaid the trust, given a 7/10 in our player ratings, and the player himself was pleased with the outcome. Speaking to DAZN after the game, as transcribed by MilanNews, he shared his thoughts on the result and his own performance.

Your first derby with the first team…

“I’m very happy and honoured. It’s a dream I’ve had since I was a kid. I told myself it was my chance, I had to make the most of every opportunity and give 100% for this shirt.”

You’re taking over the starting spot…

“I could never have imagined it, but there’s a staff and a team that gives me a lot of confidence. I’m very calm, very relaxed, I do my job and I’m available to the coach.”

You experienced some difficulties against Roma and you recovered, today you were at ease…

“There are many different games in a season. I struggled at the start against Roma, but we responded well. It means we’re a team and we help each other: that’s not a given.”

How useful was Serie C with Milan Futuro for you?

“It was very important. It helped me in some areas, especially managing the pressure of playing at bigger stadiums. Even in Serie C, there are top-level teams. It was very important. It didn’t go as we hoped, but in the end, the project is the same, and we gave it our all.”

Do you dream of the national team?

“It’s my biggest dream, but to try and make it a reality, you need serenity and a clear head. I’ll give my all for Milan and to get called up.”

A year ago, did you imagine you’d be able to start a derby? Did you have this awareness?

“No, I didn’t expect it in the space of a year. Thanks to my teammates and the Milan Futuro project, I was able to fulfil my dream. I have to thank all the staff, all the coaches, all my teammates.

“I always worked with a clear head, even if the results weren’t coming. I have nothing to lose and everything to prove; the results are in my hands.”

Considering how well he did tonight, you would expect him to start against Lazio next time out as well. On the other hand, Allegri has also expressed faith in Estupinan and could perhaps rotate to give Bartesaghi some rest.