Davide Calabria believes that he would still be at AC Milan if Paolo Maldini were too, while he revealed what the players think of Massimiliano Allegri.
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Calabria is someone who always felt a great sense of attachment to Milan. In total the full-back spent 18 years with his boyhood club, coming through the various levels of the youth sector and then becoming a starter in the team that won the Scudetto.
In the end though his farewell was a rather sad one. He fell out of favour before leaving on loan for Bologna and then signing as a free agent for Panathinaikos in the Greek Super League in the summer. There has been talk of him wanting a return, but for now the ship has sailed it seems.
Maldini, Leao, Max and more
Calabria spoke on Unplugged – the Sky Sport podcast – about his time at Milan and how he has felt since he left the club at the end of last season. His comments were relayed by Calciomercato.com.
What was it like being at Milan with Maldini?
“Maldini was an idol, he’s always been a fascinating figure. Would I still be at Milan with him? For me, yes, in my head, yes. I’d always want Maldini by my side: he’s an example for everyone, not just the best defender of all time.
“Football misses him, we’re talking about the Olympus. He advised me to enjoy the captain’s armband at Milan.”
What was it like saying goodbye?
“I miss Milan, we’re talking about my home, I’ll always miss it. I hope Maldini can return one day, he’ll come back sooner or later. Leaving Milan like that wasn’t what I hoped for, I don’t think it was right.
“It was a difficult season, in which I didn’t play much, it was a shame because I would have liked to say goodbye to San Siro in a better way and finish the season with Milan.
“Saying goodbye to everyone was a tearful experience, everything was done in a hurry. The management made other decisions and I accepted the situation.”
What is Leao like?
“For me, Leao is a top player, on the level of Vinicius and Mbappé. To give his best, he needs a supportive environment. I don’t think he’s in his prime yet, but it’s up to him.
“He knows full well that the years pass. It’s also up to those in charge to help him get back to being the player he really was and is.”
Do you think Allegri is doing a good job?
“I still hear from everyone at Milan, I can say that everyone is enthusiastic about Allegri.”