Florenzi explains why he chose Milan, praises ‘legend’ Maldini and reveals Pioli’s directions

By Oliver Fisher -

Alessandro Florenzi has lifted the lid on why he chose to join AC Milan from Roma over the summer and had some big words of praise for director Paolo Maldini.

Milan officially announced the signing of Florenzi from Roma on an initial loan deal back on August 21 after negotiations that were intense between the two clubs. It is a one-year loan but there is also an option to make the move permanent, meaning if all goes well the Rossoneri will most likely exercise that option next summer.

He has just recovered after an operation to clean his knee that left him out of action for around a month, and now his mission is to convince the management that he is worth investing in permanently.

Florenzi was interviewed by Skrill.com about a number of different topics including his time with the Rossoneri to this point, why he chose to join and some of the key figures that he has already encountered, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.

How is it going to Milan so far?

“I found the club very well organised. I have always been treated well in different clubs over the years, and Milan are one of them. The group is solid, everyone has welcomed me well and I am having a great experience.”

In the summer you were associated with several European clubs, why did you choose Milan in the end?

“I received the call from Milan and I chose to come here because the team wanted me more.”

When you hear the name ‘AC Milan’ what is the first thing that comes to your mind?

“When I think of Milan, all the champions who have passed through here and have worn this shirt immediately come to mind. I was lucky enough to meet and get to know one of them: Paolo Maldini. He is a legend of this club, he has the same aura that Totti and De Rossi have Roma. Men like them I call them the untouchables, not only for what they have given to their clubs but also to all of Italian football.”

This transfer came after a great summer for you. What was it like to win the European Championship and even make a small appearance in the final?

“Winning something with the national team is an indescribable emotion. We spent 50 days all together, we were more than teammates: we had created a family. It was not an easy journey, especially for me, but we all worked towards the same direction, in search of a dream.”

This season has started well for Milan, what goals do you think the team can achieve this year?

“The history of Milan is full of triumphs. The goal is to honour this history, building our own and bringing the name of Milan back to the top. It’s a goal that the club has set itself, it’s what the fans want and it’s something we players will try to achieve. I’ll try to help the club get back to where it belongs.”

What did coach Stefano Pioli tell you about your role and the club’s ambitions?

“I am part of a team and of a beautiful group. It is always important to focus on ‘us’ rather than ‘me’. I am at the complete disposal of the coach and my teammates. At the moment I am playing on the right wing, but I’m ready to take the field anywhere. The important thing is to always be ready when you are called upon.”


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Tags AC Milan Alessandro Florenzi
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