Ruben Loftus-Cheek has revealed that he cannot wait to sample the atmosphere of the derby, while setting ambitious targets for AC Milan this season.
The midfielder arrived from Chelsea over the summer as he followed the path of his friend and compatriot Fikayo Tomori in leaving his life in west London behind to begin a new challenge in Italy.
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So far, the Englishman has made a big impact. He has had a starting spot in each of the first three league games and he has an assist to his name for Christian Pulisic’s opener against Torino in round two, another player who went from Chelsea to Milan.
He will be a starter again tomorrow in the derby against Inter, a fierce and historic fixture that he will experience for the first time.
Loftus-Cheek spoke during an interview with the official Serie A YouTube channel and he spoke about a number of different topics from the upcoming derby to his Scudetto dream.
Are you looking forward to the derby?
“I asked my team-mates about the atmosphere. They told me that it can’t be put into words and that I’ll understand it on my own. I can’t wait to play a match like this. I know how important it is for the fans and the club. These are the matches that everyone dreams of playing.”
What are you expecting from Inter?
“They are confident. It will be an exciting match, we both started strong, there will be a dreamlike atmosphere. It’s an honour to be able to play this match.”
What have you found life in Italy like so far?
“This new life has started well. I live in the centre of Milan. Tomori is helping me a lot, we’ve known each other for a long time. He has helped me especially in understanding what it means to play for Milan. Now Pulisic has also arrived. It’s easier to settle in when you know someone. I’m happy to have them here by my side.”
How has it been working with Stefano Pioli?
“From the first time we talked, I understood that we were on the same wavelength. It was nice to talk to him, what he asks of me is what I like to do the most.”
What has your career been like to this point?
“The first part wasn’t easy, I had several injuries, I found little space and when I did play, it was out of position. So my performance was inconsistent. Now I’m looking for consistency. The coach made me understand that Milan is the right team for me.”
What are your main qualities?
“I see myself as a physical and technical player. I like playing in midfield where I can use my physicality and add speed and power. But I also like having the ball at my feet and being dangerous going forward.”
What is it like being a Milan player?
“I understand what it means to wear this shirt. The support of the fans always drives us to give our best. The roar of San Siro at our first goal [against Torino] is something I will never forget, it was fantastic. An insane sound.”
What would it be like to win the Scudetto?
“Winning the title would be beautiful, it’s an achievable goal for us. We started well, but we know how difficult this league is. We will always give our best, then in the end, we’ll see where we’ve ended up.”
