AC Milan midfielder Yacine Adli stressed the importance of never giving up even in the difficult moments as he spoke about his journey at the club so far.
It has been a very positive few months for Adli on a personal note, given that at the start of preseason last summer he seemed almost certain to be leaving Milan but he worked hard and forced his way back into Stefano Pioli’s plans.
Based on the last few games, it seems as though Pioli actually now trusts the Franco-Algerian to be the deeper-lying midfielder in the most important games, something that seemed impossible a year ago.
It is a testament to the resilience and of course the talent of the former Bordeaux man, who is expected to get the nod alongside Ismael Bennacer against Slavia Praha tomorrow night.
Adli spoke alongside Pioli at Milanello on the eve of the game against the Czech side to preview the first leg of the round of 16 tie, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
Is this an important trophy to you?
“When Milan play these matches it’s important for everyone, it’s not the Champions League but it’s a competition that we care a lot about, we want to try to get to the end but tomorrow we have an important match ahead of us against a physical team that will put intensity throughout the match, we are aware of it.”
Do you dream of a future at international level?
“I’m happy to be able to play and help out, playing with France is a goal, I have to continue working like this because the road is long. Now I’m thinking about Milan and the future of this season, I’ve certainly improved compared to last year thanks to the work of the staff and the help of my team-mates and I have to carry on like this.”
Hard work pays off, what has changed?
“The role was an important aspect that I changed this season, last year it was different and I had many quality players in front of me, it wasn’t easy but I always worked a lot and I also have to thank the coach, the staff and the team.
“I have improved and learned to play in other positions, but I have always been myself during this journey, and little by little I want and can improve even more to help the team.”
Was having such a big French influence in the dressing room good for your adaptation?
“Yes of course, when I arrived I was welcomed very well by everyone, it’s normal that it was easy to bond with many French guys, I tried to immerse myself in this world right away but it took time, as normal as that is.”
Circumstance upon circumstance, but you created all of this to be here…
“No I haven’t created anything, I only believe in daily work, in God and in my family. As I said before I know that I still have a lot to do, but I’m happy to have fought and never given up in many difficult moments.”
HE’S THE MAN!!