Brahim Diaz discusses his growth as a player, Scudetto aspirations and relationship with Maldini

By Oliver Fisher -

Brahim Diaz has claimed that AC Milan can aim for the Scudetto this season and lifted the lid on what it is like to work with Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

The Spaniard joined Milan on an initial loan spell from Real Madrid for the 2020-21 season and although he struggled to adapt at first, he made a number of vital contributions late in the season which persuaded the Rossoneri to get him back on a new two-year loan.

He took the number 10 shirt and so far it has not weighed the 22-year-old down who started his second season at AC Milan with four goals in the first seven games of the season, winning Stefano Pioli’s side nine points in the process with three game-winners.

The Spanish newspaper AS today published a long interview with Diaz in which he discussed a number of topics, from his growth as a player to targets for the season ahead.

“I feel grown and improved compared to last year, I’m more inside the dynamics. I like being a leader and owner. This year I reach goal more easily, I help the team more. There are goals, but I am much more interested in the results,” he said (via MilanLive).

“I am willing to play in all roles, but obviously I feel better behind the striker, to act between the lines and have room for plays. The number 10? I hope to be up to it, knowing all the great talents who have worn it.

“The Scudetto? Yes, we aim for that even if the season is balanced, there are many teams fighting to win. We think game after game trying to improve ourselves. We have a complete and quality squad. I enjoy the present and I am happy, I want to continue helping Milan with goals, assists and above all a lot of work.”

On the Champions League, he added: “ It’s the home of Milan, everyone knows it. We had a good game in Liverpool, scoring two goals, but we can do even better. Against Atletico it will be a great match, they have strong players willing to sacrifice. But we play at home and we can win.”

On his relationship with Paolo Maldini: “A legend, both as a player and as a manager. We have a great relationship, I owe him a lot because he trusted me. I thank him, Massara, Gazidis and Mr. Pioli, everyone wanted to keep me at Milan and I want to repay them.”

Finally, some comments about his team-mates: “Theo Hernandez helped me a lot to fit in. Everyone knows his qualities as a footballer, but as a person he is also fantastic. Me, him and Castillejo make a nice trio, we have a lot of fun.

“Ibrahimovic ? An older brother, he showed affection for me and that makes me very happy. He helps you improve, he’s a great champion and he shows it even when he’s not playing. Having him in the team is a plus.”


READ MORE: Full list of salaries for Milan’s 2021-22 squad – some key players among lowest earners

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