AC Milan defender Davide Bartesaghi has named Theo Hernandez among the full-backs he looks up to, and praised Massimiliano Allegri.
It has been a whirlwind season for Bartesaghi, who expected to be the back-up to Theo before he was sold to Al-Hilal, and then became the deputy to new signing Pervis Estupinan. That was until the Ecuadorian got injured, then the Italian stepped in and seized his chance.
Read SempreMilan ad-free and get access to exclusive news. Click here for a free trial!
A brace against Sassuolo at San Siro in December felt like a coming of age moment for Bartesaghi. He started in the 1-0 win over Verona on Sunday, putting in another solid shift as Allegri decided to go back to the three-man defence, with Davide being the left wing-back.
Bartesaghi – a boyhood fan of the club – spoke to MilanNews on the sidelines of the Mcl-Ussi-Entel ‘Inside the Sport 2026’ awards ceremony in Coverciano, and his comments have been translated below.
How motivated are you to finish second?
“It’s certainly very important. We’re having a great season, but it’s not enough, because there are still many games left, all of them crucial.
“We’re focused on these remaining matches and want to do our best to bring home as many points as possible, but above all, achieve our goal, which is currently the Champions League.”
How important has Allegri been to you?
“He and his staff were fundamental, very important, because I always received a lot of trust, even when I was struggling a bit. He always gave me faith, just like the team did, so I’m very happy about that.”
Is there enough belief in young players in Italy?
“Yes, because there are so many interesting young prospects. Then you have to work hard year after year.”
Who are the three full-backs you look up to the most?
“Theo Hernandez, who was with me until a few months ago. Spinazzola and also a little Palestra, because I think he’s showing a lot too and I love him.”
What features would you steal from Palestra?
“One-on-one and dribbling.”
Do you think you can replicate Theo’s achievements at Milan?
“It’s certainly a dream, a difficult one, because he gave so much for the club and he gave so much. But I think I’m very focused on my career and what I want to do.”
Bartesaghi’s play has totally collapsed in 2H of the season. He’s been a solid 5 since the new year.
Yeah get rid of him asap. I want to see more Estupinian as opposed to this super talented kid from our own system. Plus he’s italian… yuck. This is Milan… gtfo italians!!!!!