Camarda admits Milan are his ‘second home’ but he will ‘give 100%’ to beat them

Francesco Camarda has admitted that AC Milan is home to him, but he will give everything to try and beat his parent club next month.

The 2024-25 season was a peculiar one for Camarda, who spent time with the first team and Milan Futuro for the first part before making his first league start in a draw against Cagliari. He became mostly an unused substitute in 2025, which led to suggestions of a potential loan spell.

Lecce emerged as the frontrunners early on when the decision was taken to allow the teenager out on loan and they confirmed the deal last week. They have an option to buy set at €3m but Milan have a buy-back at €4m, with some bonuses included to encourage the Salento side to play him.

A big opportunity

Camarda spoke during his presentation press conference with Lecce on Tuesday afternoon and shed some more light on the move. His comments were relayed by MilanNews.

What role do you see yourself having?

“I’m a number nine; playing in the penalty area is my daily bread. I’m working to improve outside the box as well. I consider myself a hard worker; I aim to improve every day and always strive to do better.”

What opportunities does Lecce represent? Could it be a springboard to the national team?

“I want to take advantage of every opportunity I can get. The club has placed so much faith in me, and I want to repay it. I’ll give my all for this club and for the fans. The future will depend on the present.

“This year, I’m focused on myself. I’ll work hard to improve myself and for the team. We have a goal and we want to achieve it at all costs.”

Image: Gazzetta dello Sport

How do you feel about your journey so far?

“Hearing the statistics is nice, but the numbers are the result of teamwork. A striker needs the team behind him, otherwise it wouldn’t be so important. I don’t feel pressure, I live calmly, I never change my attitude.”

Have you spoken to the coach yet?

“Yes, and also to my teammates. They’ve welcomed me well. I’m building a good relationship with everyone. Over time, we’ll become closer and closer.”

Shirt number?

“I haven’t chosen it yet. We’ll discuss it with my teammates at the end of training camp.”

A message to the fans?

“Be warm, we’ll give it our all and try to make them happy.”

Did you listen to any advice before coming to Lecce?

“First and foremost, my family. They’ve always supported me, and I always listen to their advice; it’s invaluable. Other people have also given me advice, from coaches to other teammates.

“I made the decision to come to Lecce myself, with the help of my agent. Lecce placed a lot of faith in me, and they showed their interest right away. I was pleased with that and it gave me the motivation to come here.”

What do you want to see in your team-mates?

“I don’t have to ask for anything in particular. My team-mates are strong, but there are different situations on the pitch. The coach’s principles and quality are what count. I just ask that the group be united and that we always move forward together.”

What memories do you have of that disallowed goal in the Champions League?

“That evening is unforgettable. I’m disappointed that the goal was disallowed, but it gave me the motivation to always want more.”

Your first match at the Stadio Via del Mare could be against Milan…

“I’ll play against my old team-mates but I’ll give 100% to win. It’s my first match in front of our home fans.”

What do you think of the situation of young footballers in Italy?

“Here in Lecce, they treat me like the professional I am. Some of my peers may not be able to showcase their talent because they don’t have the tools to do so.

“Personally, here in Lecce, I’ll have a chance to show off. Here, they know how to work with young players; they have the average age of the youngest team in Serie A.”

Have you set a goal?

“I’ve set one, but I’m keeping it to myself. I’ll say it at the end of the season.”

How do you ‘have fun’ at your age?

“You have to stay calm. Football is my passion, my dream, and I pursue it every day.”

Are you thinking about your 18th birthday party?

“Honestly, no, but it would be a nice gift to score in the two games either side of my birthday.”

Were you surprised by Lecce’s call?

“No, when I heard about their interest, I was ready to listen. Then director Corvino spoke to me, making me understand that Lecce is focusing on young players, and that gave me a huge push to come here.”

What is it like leaving Lecce?

“Milan is like a second home, but now I’m focused on the present and Lecce.”

What kind of relationship would you like to build with Krstovic?

“The relationship I’ll build with Nikola will be the same I’ll build with everyone else. I’m a humble guy, they’ll always see me working, and I’ll always be there for my teammates.”

What is your relationship with your parents?

“They’ve always supported me, even when I was on long trips; they always tried to be there for me. When they heard about Lecce, they asked me what I thought, and when I said yes, they didn’t hesitate to follow me. They’ll make a sacrifice, but it pushes me to improve.”

How was the leap to the senior ranks?

“I’m able to adapt to the pace quickly. The move from the youth academy to Milan Futuro and Serie A was quite a leap, but it took me a while to get used to the times. Serie C is a tough league, with a lot of physical contact.

“Technically, Serie A is a different level, but Serie C is more physically demanding, with less space and fewer opportunities to shine. The key to adapting to the pace this year will be training, even against players like Baschirotto and Gaspar, who are physically devastating.

“This will help me a lot. Last year with Milan, I trained against players like Gabbia and Tomori, so you have to raise your pace and level. You improve in training, and in matches, you put what you learn into practice.”