Yunus Musah has spoken about his decision to join AC Milan from Valencia, as well as explaining the role Stefano Pioli wants to use him in and where he can improve.
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Musah became Milan’s eighth signing of the summer transfer window as he signed on a five-year deal from Valencia, where he had spent the last few years after leaving Arsenal’s academy.
He made 33, 29 and 32 league appearances respectively from the 2020-21 season onwards as a member of the first team of the LaLiga side, before deciding to join the Rossoneri.
We analysed what the 20-year-old should bring to Milan in a piece yesterday, but it is always best to hear it first hand from the player. Musah spoke to reporters at his unveiling press conference at Milanello, with MilanNews relaying his quotes.
Did you have the opportunity to talk about Milan with Gattuso?
“Gattuso sometimes spoke to me about what was happening here at Milan. He gave me advice on how to play as a midfielder. With Riccio [Gattuso’s assistant], we joked about playing for Milan this year… Then it happened,” he said.
You speak Italian…
“I’m delighted to be here, I can’t wait to play and help my team-mates. I’m delighted.”
What kind of midfielder are you?
“I like to do a little bit of everything. I like dropping deep, carrying the ball early by dribbling, being aggressive in defence… I like being a midfielder who does a little bit of everything. I think I have power to carry the ball forward.”
Who smiles more between you and Chukwueze?
“I don’t know, he smiles a lot too… It’s very good to have someone like him in the dressing room.”
Did you speak to Gattuso after the official announcement?
“No, I haven’t talked to him, but now that you’ve told me, I’ll have to call him.”
Your journey has taken you from Giorgione (the Italian town where he grew up) to Milan…
“I would never have dreamed of it. It’s a very beautiful story: I traveled around a lot after Giorgione and now I’m back here in Italy, in Milan, in a club with a very great history.”
How does it feel to be in this dressing room?
“It’s a dressing room full of players with a lot of talent, who have already done so many things in football. Working with them is a privilege. I want to improve and learn from them, reaching my best.”
How was your childhood here in Italy?
“I had a great time in Italy. I played a lot of tournaments, we played often and then when I was hungry we went to my mother’s shop to get some snacks. I had a great time.
“I can immediately fit in here in Italy knowing the language. My brother is from Milano, we always play together and we know many things about Milan.”
Who has impressed you the most at Milan?
“All the players are top-level, I’ve been watching them on TV for the past two years. Being able to play with them is a privilege, I’m very happy.”
Have you spoken to Pioli?
“I’m talking to the coach, he’s teaching me how he wants me to play to help the team. Pioli is helping me a lot in inserting myself.”
What are your emotions?
“Many emotions. I want to raise my level. Milan is growing and I just want this to continue. This is a great opportunity for me.”
What position will you play in?
“Pioli is asking me to play as a mezzala, he’s explaining the positioning and how to get into the box.”
Who do you have as an idol?
“I really liked Yaya Touré, he was a reference for me and I keep watching his videos: he had technique and power, everything.”
Where do you need to improve?
“I can do more in the finishing phase, maybe score more goals. There’s a high level of tactics here, I’m missing this a bit… Now the coaches are helping me.”
