Halilovic explains his past, future with AC Milan and number 77

AC Milan’s new signing, Alen Halilovic, spoke to the media during his press conference at Milanello. Here is the full interview, as it happened. 

“Hello to all the Rossoneri fans, I’m really happy to be here, it’s a great honour to play for the biggest club in the world. I want to learn from these players and this club, It’s a big step but I want to show want I can do. The players have helped me a lot. 

On Gattuso: “I spoke to the coach, he explained everything. He’s here for me if I need something, or have an issue. We’ll have more time to speak, the first impression is very good. 

On his number (77): “Because number 7 is my favourite, Kalinic has number 7 and he’s also Croatian, so I chose 77.”

On Kevin-Prince Boateng: “I’d like to thank him and Aquilani. I played with them at Las Palmas, they spoke well about Milan and I want to play here. They told me about the history, and that have to train a lot to learn. I have to do my best and after I will realise how big Milan is. 

On playing in the midfield (in a 4-3-3): “Yes I’ve played before as a midfielder (mezz’ala), the position often linked with the ‘number 8’ is good for me.”

On his previous talent and how to start again: “Three years ago I was very young and at Barca, the best for me would be to go to a team where I can play a lot. Us young players need game time, now I’m 22 and that’s why I chose Milan. It’s the right time to do something even better. 

On the tough years: “I was young, like I said. It’s better to play for smaller teams because you get playing time, not like at Barcelona. You don’t get many chances there. Now is the time to step up and play for a bigger team.”

On getting to the national team: “Yes I think Milan can be important, but now I’m only thinking about the club. If I play well here I have more chances of playing for the national team. I’ll do my best here to stay and make history with this club.”

On his new teammates: “I’ve spoken a lot with Stefan Simic, because he speaks my language. I’d like to thank him, he’s a good guy. All of the players have helped me, also the captain who’s a great guy. I’ve also spoken to the guys who speak Spanish, like Suso and Musacchio. I want to learn Italian fast so I can make more friends.”

On Milan’s history and Boban: “He was a big player and an important player for Croatia, I will speak with him for sure. Pasalic was also here a few years ago, he’s a good friend of mine.”

On his main qualities: “I can do well in the middle of the pitch or on the right wing. I believe my technique is very good, in Spain I learned a lot from many big players. I can improve a lot because I’m young, but my best skills are my technique and my dribbling. 

On Gattuso again: “He gives everything for the players, sometimes when you are tired he wants more. He always gives 100% to us.”

On Cristiano Ronaldo: He’s one of the best in history, I’ve played against him a few times for national team and in La Liga. However, my favourite player is Messi, although I have big respect for Ronaldo. I trained with Messi and he will always be my idol.”

On the fans: “I want to thank the fans, it was an honour for me to become a part of this team, I spoke with Boateng and Aquilani and they talked about the fans a lot. I’llhavev to do my best on the pitch for this club and they will always protect me.”