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David Odogu has spoken about how his move to AC Milan came about, as well as being motivated by the lack of fanfare over his arrival.
Odogu was the surprise of deadline day for many, given that at the beginning of the final day of the window it looked as though Joe Gomez would be joining from Liverpool.
That deal fell through and so the Milan management turned to the 19-year-old at Wolfsburg, who has only three senior appearances to his name. A deal believed to be worth €10m was wrapped up quickly, and the announcement followed that evening.
Odogu spoke at Casa Milan on Thursday afternoon in his official unveiling press conference alongside fellow new signing Christopher Nkunku. His comments were transcribed by MilanNews.
Do you think you’re ready, even though you’re very young?
“Yes. The first few days were excellent, a truly warm welcome. I want to be humble, learn, gain experience by working hard and improving day after day.”
What should we know about you?
“I’m a central defender, a defender. I like to defend the goal, duels, I like to keep clean sheets, I like to lead the defence. Obviously I want to be aggressive, physical, and have the mentality to win every match. Off the pitch, I believe, I believe in God, I like to play other sports like tennis.”
Can you tell us your first memory of AC Milan?
“My first memory of Milan is of Maldini. He’s my first memory when I think of AC Milan, as are other legends like Baresi, Nesta, and Gullit. Another is Boateng, born in Berlin like me. The stadium too. Yes, there are many things, but the first thing that comes to mind is Maldini.”
Did Milan contact you before or only on the last day?
“During the transfer window, they didn’t say anything directly to me, so it was a surprise for me. 24 hours before, I had a call with my agent and he told me about this possibility. I’m very happy, as well as surprised.”
Was Italy your destiny?
“I wasn’t able to see the World Cup in 2006, but I know Italy won their World Cup in Berlin, so it might be a funny coincidence that I was born in 2006 when the national team won in Germany.”
Germany won the U19 World Cup with you in the starting line-up…
“The U19 World Cup was a wonderful experience. The fact that I played with other champions gives me a lot of confidence to compete with great players.
“It was a great tournament, we won it, but now I have to prove that I can be at the level of the likes of Cubarsi and Estevao with whom I played in this competition.”
Do you have the ambition and desire that a 2006-born player like yourself can start for Milan?
“I’m young and I know it, but that’s my goal. I came here to play consistently and prove that a young player can do it even in a short time. I don’t have much experience, but I know my qualities, and I know I can compete with the great players, week in and week out.
“Otherwise I wouldn’t have signed for a club like Milan. I want to work hard and do everything I can, and Milanello has everything it takes to get me ready quickly.”
Does the lack of excitement around you motivate you?
“That motivates me. When you join a big club, you know there’s pressure and high expectations. I know how to cope, and that’s a great motivation, especially on the pitch. I’ll let my performances speak for themselves. Now I have to work hard.”
What did Allegri tell you?
“I’ll be ready for whatever the coach gives me. I’m grateful he’s my coach because I know he’s very good with defenders. I’m not interested in playing with three or four [centre-backs]. I’m very happy to work with Allegri because I’m sure I’ll learn a lot from him and his staff.”
What has impressed you most about Milan in these first few days?
“Everything. It’s all so big and professional. Now I know what it means to be at a club like this, super organized. The staff and players are super professional and take care of me. They’re helping me, especially with improving my Italian, but I’ll take lessons. Everything is so beautiful here.”
Were you surprised by Milan’s call?
“It wasn’t surprising. I’ve always been aware of my qualities, but I’m truly grateful and happy that the club believes in me. Now it’s time to prove my worth and repay their faith.”
What’s your aim?
“As a team, we want to win everything. We want to work as a team and get the most out of this season. That’s why I’m here: helping the team. As for my personal goals, I want to show my qualities and help the team as much as possible this season.”
They compare you a lot to Rudiger…
“I’m grateful to be compared to him. I want to be aggressive, a leader on the pitch. I want to have the mentality to defend my goal. I’m grateful for this comparison, but I want to play with the same mentality to achieve my goal.”
Are you curious to meet Maignan?
“I’m very happy. He’s one of the best in his position, a leader, a captain. I’m happy to learn a lot from him. He’s a great goalkeeper and I’m happy to play with him.”
Did you know you could go down in Milan history because winning the Scudetto would mean getting the 20th?
“Yes. It could be a special year, and I hope to get the most out of this season.”
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