2 weeks ago
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Samuele Ricci has opened up about the first month at AC Milan, his goal for the upcoming season and how Max Allegri is helping him become a complete midfielder.
Ricci’s move to Milan was announced at the start of the month, and as a result, he has been with the team since the start of the pre-season. After two good performances against Arsenal and Liverpool, he has certainly caught the attention of the fans as well.
In addition to being an incredibly secure passer, he has also improved at winning back the ball and blocking dangerous passes. Given the struggles Milan had in the No.6 position last season, it seems Ricci is just what they needed.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport in Perth, where Milan will take on Perth Glory on Thursday, Ricci opened up about his first weeks with the Rossoneri. Despite his age (23), he delivered some very mature responses, and also praised Allegri for his help so far.
Ricci’s interview
Ricci, did you expect such a quick integration?
“I usually integrate well into new environments right away. The work isn’t entirely complete, but I think I’m on a good path thanks to the club, the people who work at Milan, and the locker room, who have given me a great helping hand.”
How are things going with Allegri?
“We have a good connection: we’re both Tuscans and we understand each other quite well… He asks us midfielders to be solid: technically, we have to try to suffer as few inside passes as possible and play the ball quickly and forward, because we know the quality and pace of our wingers.
“If we put them in a position to hurt the opponents, even using the switch of play, everything is easier.”
What is your assessment of the first three weeks of work?
“I found a very good staff, a relaxed atmosphere, and teammates focused on having a great season. I couldn’t have asked for better.”
You have excelled in pass completion percentage for years…
“My main skill is playing the ball. However, I know that this role requires significant non-possession play and that you need to position yourself well to help the team. This is something I’m improving on thanks to the coach, who adjusts my positioning in every training session.”
Admit it: with the advice of a former midfielder like Allegri, is everything easier?
“He also played in that position and knows all the secrets (smiles). He corrects me and helps me.”
Did you expect Milan to play like this against Liverpool?
“We also had the same performance against Arsenal, but we struggled more in possession because we couldn’t develop the play vertically. In Hong Kong, however, we made progress in this regard and we created many chances, especially on the counterattack. We were as solid as the coach asks of us.”
After the matches against Torino and Saturday’s test, it’s better to have Leao as a teammate. Is that true?
“Yes, much better as a teammate. We know Rafa’s qualities, he’s a player who can make the difference for us. Maybe he doesn’t even know how strong and talented he is. If he makes himself available to the team, he’s an incredible added value.”
What’s it like to “share” the midfield with Loftus and Fofana?
“They’re two top-notch, well-rounded players who can do a bit of everything. Having them by my side makes things easier. Players like that are essential for a team aiming high.”
Allegri said that the tactical balance was one of the things he liked most…
“We knew Liverpool’s strength and we were focused from the first minute. We needed to close down and be even more solid than we were against Arsenal. We did that.”
Is a new era beginning at AC Milan after the disappointments of 2024-25?
“These are just friendlies, so they’re matches that only count for a certain amount of things, for better or for worse. Plus, we’re pumped up in terms of preparation. That said, I’d say they’re important to make an initial impact, build something important, and get some minutes in our legs. It’s crucial that everyone is available and that we strive to do what the coach asks of us.”
Do you still hear from any of your former Torino teammates?
“Yes, often. I’ve asked them how things are going with the new coach and I’ve spoken to some members of the medical staff. I have a good relationship with my former teammates and that’s what makes me most happy.”
In short, you are happy to wear the Rossoneri shirt, but you don’t forget Torino…
“Joining AC Milan was wonderful. I thank president Cairo, the club, and the entire Torino community, who immediately welcomed me like a son and gave me the opportunity to come here. And then, of course, I thank AC Milan for believing in me.”
Is it time to come out as a footballer? As a child, you supported…
“I was a Milan fan.”
Tare and Allegri have been clear: the priority this year is to bring Milan back to the Champions League. Do you agree?
“Besides being the priority, it’s what Milan deserves. Then we’ll see where we are in the final months… We’ll have to move forward step by step and listen to the coach in training. We’re on the right path, but let’s try not to look too far into the future.”
But you’re also eager to hear the Champions League anthem from the pitch…
“Of course. I think everyone wants to hear the anthem at San Siro again, not just me. That’s why we’re continuing to work to bring Milan back to the top.”
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