Malick Thiaw finally made a splash at AC Milan on Sunday against Hellas Verona when he produced two great blocks late in the game to keep the score at 2-1.
His move to the Rossoneri appeared unexpected when it happened towards the end of the summer transfer window, but as reported by Milan News, there are plenty of key details that led to the transfer from Schalke 04.
Due to his background, Thiaw is eligible to play for Germany, Senegal or Finland, but he chose to represent the German national team.
In terms of the move from the then 2. Bundesliga club Schalke, it cost Milan €5 million outright and then an extra €2 million in bonuses. They also owe Schalke 10% of any future fee he is sold for.
He is a physical and active defender but his first role actually came as a midfielder and he was once the Schalke U19s top scorer with eight goals.
He was later moved into defence when he showed real promise in that area.