2 weeks ago
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By: Ben Dixon
Samuele Ricci has spoken for the first time since joining AC Milan today, and he has discussed his career path, as well as the days before his move.
For some time, Milan followed Ricci extensively and finally, five years after the first links to the midfielders, made the move to bring him to the Rossoneri. He is no longer the young talent from Empoli that he once was, but rather an established international.
With Torino, he has matured and excelled in the middle of the park, and will add a fantastic layer of quality to the midfield, which is being remade this summer.
Ricci’s first words
After signing his contract on Thursday afternoon at Casa Milan, he briefly spoke to journalists, stating that he was happy to join the club. However, this evening, he has spoken to MilanTV for the first time and MilanNews have relayed his statements.
How do you feel now that your dream of signing for Milan has come true?
“There are so many emotions. I have to say that I have never been so nervous as in these days. It goes without saying that it is an honour; we all know what kind of club Milan is. The expectations are also high: it is an important year; I will do my best to repay the trust that has been placed in me.”
What are your goals with this shirt?
“Trying to win as many games as possible, that would be the best thing: I wear the Milan shirt, such an important club, and so you have to try to always give your best.”
Over 100 appearances in Serie A, 10 appearances for Italy: do you think you’ve done the right apprenticeship to wear the shirt of a top club like Milan?
“Yes, I think it’s the right time. I spent a few years at Empoli, in Serie B, then I came to Turin which gave me the opportunity to grow a lot. Mister Juric and Mister Vanoli helped me a lot: I have to thank them for being here, and also everyone who was part of my career.
“I still have to improve on a lot of things. I think this is the right place to improve: you compete with important players, among the best in the world, and it’s the best way to mature and improve. On and off the pitch, I’ll always be myself, very balanced, as I am off the pitch, I’ll also be on the pitch, and I think I’ll be able to give Milan a hand.”
You have already played with teammates who have worn the Milan jersey in the past. Have they already told you what it means to wear this jersey?
“The last one I heard from was Gabbia. I asked him for some info on various things within the Milan world. We have a good relationship, we know each other from the national team. There are many others, there’s Pobega… I have a great relationship with everyone.”
You have been cast in multiple roles throughout your career… Which role do you feel you best express yourself in?
“The role of three-man midfielder is the one I feel most like, but over the years, I have learned to play other types of roles as well. I started out as a half-winger in Serie B, with Juric, I ended up playing in a two-man midfield, where you are asked to do more things, and you have to do everything perfectly. Then I went back to playing as a midfielder in front of the defence… The role I feel most like is perhaps that one.”
Many important midfielders have been part of this club. Is there anyone you have followed more closely or who you have been inspired by?
“The first one that comes to mind is Pirlo, obviously the master in that role. I watched a few videos when I was little. Maybe I didn’t get to see a lot of games, but I remember him very well.”
Why did you choose the number 4 shirt?
“It’s a number I’ve worn in the past for some national teams. I like it a lot, it really suits who I am on and off the pitch. It’s a number that gives a lot of stability and balance: it’s who I am, and that’s why I chose 4.”
What can you tell us about yourself? What do you like to do outside of football?
“I spend a lot of time with my family. During the year, I’m always focused on what I have to do on the pitch: I do everything I can to do a little bit more to then feel better on the pitch.”
We saw that you were on holiday in Uganda, not a typical holiday destination for a footballer. Is the reason for this trip your way of escaping from the usual reality?
“I think escaping is the right word. I’ve been going to Africa for four years. Every time you come back from a trip like that, you always take something with you that enriches you.
“People who have practically nothing compared to the rest of us, but they always manage to have a smile on their face. I think this is the most beautiful lesson you take with you.”
A message for Milan fans?
“I wanted to send a big hello and a hug to all the fans. See you soon, Forza Milan! Bye!”
Positive statements indeed from the new No. 4.
The post Ricci discusses joining ‘top club’ Milan, preferred position and Pirlo inspiration appeared first on SempreMilan.
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