The Serbian national team coach Dragan Stojkovic has revealed that he advised Strahinja Pavlovic to join AC Milan, and he believes that it will be a good signing for the Rossoneri.
Pavlovic was spotted in Milano last night, after reports had emerged suggesting that the Rossoneri had struck an agreement with Red Bull Salzburg at last. He will arrive for a fee of €18m plus €2m in bonuses and will sign a long-term contract, per multiple reports.
Milan have finally got their man given that negotiations had been ongoing for weeks. Pavlovic has international experience and has played in the Champions League, he is young at 23, physically dominant and left-footed, which means he ticks plenty of boxes.
The Serbian national team coach Dragan Stojkovic gave an interview in today’s edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) and expressed his opinion on the imminent signing of Pavlovic for the Rossoneri.
What is Pavlovic like?
“Pavlovic is not just a defender, he is a warrior . I am not surprised, I will tell you an anecdote from this summer so you can understand why. In Germany, during the European Championship, Pavlovic asked me for advice for his future.
“Strahinja told me that he could choose between several Premier League clubs and Milan in case of leaving Salzburg. I told him: ‘If you can choose, go to Milan. It is a top club and Serie A is the university for a defender’.
“He thought exactly like me, he had an experience in Italy in mind. I am always happy when a player from my national team lands in a big club, but in Strahinja’s case I would be even happier.”
What is his best quality?
“With his imposing size he combines a notable elevation, useful in both areas, and a quick step. He is good at defending in the open field. And then he is left-footed: there are not many young, high-level, left-footed central defenders. Pavlovic is one of these and signing him is a bargain.”
How important will it be for him to join a club like Milan?
“Milan is history and playing with the shirt that once belonged to Baresi, Maldini and Costacurta is a great responsibility. Pavlovic is ready for this leap because, beyond his technical qualities, he is serious and focused on football. On the pitch he is a true warrior, it is a bit like he plays with two hearts. He never leaves you alone.”
Finally, a word on another Milan target, Lazar Samardzic?
“Milan’s interest doesn’t surprise me. Lazar is a protagonist in Serie A with Udinese, they know his qualities. Samardzic has crystal clear talent and I’m convinced that he would excel even more in a top club. Sooner or later, he’ll get there. We’ll see.”