Ricci happy with competition for places at Milan: “I knew I was coming to a big club”

Samuele Ricci has been far from an established starter since he arrived at AC Milan in the summer, but he sees the competition as healthy.

The first choice midfield three for Massimiliano Allegri has almost always had Luka Modric and Adrien Rabiot in it, leaving several players fighting for the remaining spot. Youssouf Fofana has been most used on the right, while even Ruben Loftus-Cheek has had more chances than the summer signings.

Tonight, though, things are a bit different. Ardon Jashari will be the regista, replacing Modric, while Ricci has been given the nod for the right mezzala role, with Rabiot on the left. It will be a big chance for the Italian to prove that he deserves more regular starts.

Speaking to DAZN before kick-off, Ricci didn’t seem phased by the idea that he will have to work hard for minutes in this team, as opposed to at Torino where he was one of the first names in the side and was the captain. MilanNews relayed his words.

You’ll get a rare start tonight…

“I’m super calm, as I have been since the start of the season. I knew I was coming to a big club where I’d find a lot of competition. I think it’s a good competition, it keeps us all on our toes. I’ve found the guys to be very helpful, always there to lend a hand, I can’t complain. I’ll play my cards right.”

Today, you and Jashari are in midfield. Who’s playing as the regista?

“You’ll see later. I’m kidding. Today I’m playing mezzala while Jashari plays regista. In Florence we alternated, but no matter what, we’re asked to do everything, and we’re ready to give our best.”