Simon Kjaer has tried to explain the ‘crazy’ feeling of AC Milan being the champions of Italy and gave an update on his recovery process.
Although he has spent the last few months sidelined after sustaining a knee ligament injury that needed surgery, Kjaer has undoubtedly been a huge contributor to Milan’s rise over the past couple of seasons not only because of his excellent performances but also his leadership and experience in helping a young squad.
The win against Sassuolo on Sunday to seal a 19th Scudetto was the culmination of a two and a half year journey under head coach Stefano Pioli during which there were many turning points and key moments that helped to great a strong and cohesive squad.
Interviewed by the Danish channel TV2 SPORT, Kjaer conveyed his emotions after the Rossoneri lifted the trophy with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
“It was crazy! Everyone is so happy. It is very difficult to put into words. It is absolutely amazing to see how much it means to the fans. It’s a fantastic experience,” he said.
On it being his first trophy: “Ehhm… I hope it’s not the last! I’m so proud. I came to Milan two and a half years ago and so many things have happened with the team and how we have improved. Nobody believed we could to become champions this year. We always believed in it. We knew that there was a lot of work to do and that it would be a difficult road. I think it is an incredible feeling what we have inside now.”
On his arrival and that of Ibrahimovic: “Personally, I find it very difficult to praise myself. But one of the things that Milan considered important was to bring a bit of continuity and professionalism to the team, and to understand how much work you will have to put into every single day.
“If you have to do an exercise 20 times and you only do it 18 times you are already behind. This is what we have tried to convey, you have to give 100% every single day. Because if you do it today in the world of football, you will be able to overcome the others. And then also a lot of passion.”
On if the Scudetto is his best moment: “I’ve always had a hard time comparing the national team and the club. They are two completely different things emotionally. But there is no doubt that this is the greatest emotion I’ve ever experienced. I also told the guys in Denmark during the European Championships to have fun while it lasts. There is a bit of chaos, but you can’t be sure you will experience this again.”
On his return to the pitch: “In the last four weeks, my schedule has been organised according to how the weekend game went. What does this mean? It means that I was prepared to play today [against Sassuolo]. I don’t think that the doctors thought the same way. Fortunately for them no one had been injured or quarantined. I would have said that of course I was ready to play. I feel fine!”
Welcome back Simon. A true leader and professional