This summer, Andrej Kostic will be part of the AC Milan pre-season squad and he will aim to impress Ruben Amorim.
After joining the club in the winter, Kostic has immediately thrown into the deep end and he will spend his first pre-season at Milan in the first team. However, this was his goal. Reports have stated for a while now that he had ambitions of being within the first team picture this season and here we are.
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Indeed, Ruben Amorim is keen to assess him and Francesco Camarda, both of whom are extremely well thought of in the European football sphere, let alone at Milanello. A place is there for one of them, it seems, so whoever can impress over the next month could play a large part in the season.
Kostic aiming high
Speaking to MilanNews today, his agent Darko Ristic looked at the battle with Camarda and the Rossoneri’s plan for his client.
After impressing with Partizan, Andrej Kostic attracted interest from several clubs during the last winter transfer window. What convinced you to choose AC Milan?
“There was concrete interest from several clubs, both before and during the winter transfer window. But let’s be honest: AC Milan is one of the biggest clubs in world football. When a club like AC Milan calls you, you simply can’t say no.
“We were all really happy that this opportunity came from the Rossoneri. For Andrej, his family, and me, it was a moment of great pride.”
He’s been training with the first team in recent days. Have you had a chance to speak to us? Can you tell us what you think of Rúben Amorim and how he’s enjoying these first few days with AC Milan?
“Yes, he’s been training with the first team for a few days now, and of course we talk almost daily. He’s really enjoying this experience and has been extremely impressed by everything he’s seen so far. He has nothing but positive things to say about Rúben Amorim.
“From the way he communicates with the players to the ideas he wants to implement, Andrej says it’s very clear what the coach wants to achieve and the direction he intends to take the team.”
In Italy, there’s been talk of a loan move to Serie B to help him develop ahead of next season. Is this a concrete possibility?
“Milan knows better than anyone what the best solution is for his growth and his career. For my part, I can only say that Andrej is completely focused on Milan right now. Now he’s focused solely on giving his all in training today and tomorrow. He’s taking his journey one step at a time.”
Has AC Milan already drawn up a precise plan for his future?
“Absolutely. AC Milan acquired Andrej because they consider him an investment for the future, but also a player capable of immediately competing on a major stage. He’s a highly talented striker who, despite his young age, has already gained significant experience both in senior football and internationally.
“I’m convinced AC Milan has a precise plan for his development, and we are fully aligned with the club. The priority is to help him fully realize his potential, step by step.”
How would you describe Kostic to AC Milan fans in three adjectives, so they can get to know him better?
“Ambitious. Courageous. Determined. And you could add a fourth word: winner.”
Do you think he’s ready to play in Serie A?
“I think he’ll get his opportunities at the right time, in the right way, and within Milan’s plans. I’ve always believed that every player can improve, regardless of their talent.
“Can he make an impact in Serie A this season? Absolutely, I’m convinced of it. He has that special X factor that can’t really be taught. At the same time, we’re in no rush. The most important thing is that his development is managed correctly. If we do that, everything else will come naturally.”
When Milan expressed their interest in him, how did you react? Were the Rossoneri always your first choice?
“As I said, several clubs had shown concrete interest in Andrej before and during the winter transfer window. But the moment Milan entered the picture, everything became very clear. For Andrej, his parents, and me, Milan immediately became the first and only choice.”
In the coming months, there will inevitably be talk of potential competition between Kostic and Camarda. Do you think either can fully realize their potential and play a key role in AC Milan’s future?
“Camarda is a very talented player. They’re both part of a young and exciting generation, and I think it’s positive that they can push each other every day. Healthy competition helps young players improve.
“I sincerely believe that they both have all the qualities needed to become important players for AC Milan in the future and play a leading role in Italian and European football. From AC Milan’s point of view, it’s a really good problem to have.”
