Milan midfielder Kessie issues emphatic response to €30m Napoli links

By Oliver Fisher -

AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie has issued a definitive response to links with a move to Napoli by insisting he wants to remain with the Rossoneri for many years.

It was announced on Wednesday that Gennaro Gattuso would take over from Carlo Ancelotti, who was sacked as Napoli boss immediately after their Champions League win over Genk.

One area that Gattuso seems keen to strengthen is midfield, with La Gazzetta dello Sport journalist Nicolo Schira reporting that the first contacts have been made between Napoli and Kessie’s representatives.

However, numerous outlets have since stated that Milan are in no mood to sell and would only do so if a bid of €30million or more was put on the table.

Kessie had remained silent on the matter, but he has now given an exclusive interview to SportMediaset, and his words were transcribed by MilanNews.it.

He began by addressing rumours of disciplinary issues which saw him out of the squad against Juventus last month.

“I feel good with Pioli as with all the coaches I had at Milan. The fact that I am now playing makes everyone understand that he has nothing against me and I have nothing against him,” he said.

“I didn’t play against Juventus because I had a physical problem during the week, nothing serious.”

On the start to the season: “We made some false steps at the beginning but now we are growing, we are working to reach the goal. Qualification for the Champions League? In my opinion, everything is still open.

“If I wanted to leave, I would have already done it. I want to stay here for so many years, a team that I supported as a child, for me it’s a dream come true and I’ll always give my best for these colours.”

His idols as a child: “Above all Clarence Seedorf. Then I always liked Essien and when he arrived at Milan I was very happy.”


SempreMilan Podcast: Episode 78 – More away day delight

Tags AC Milan Franck Kessie
Serie A Standings

Live football scores . Current table, fixtures & results.