Marco Sportiello has revealed his delight after sealing a move to AC Milan, professing himself to be a fan of the club since he was young.
Through a statement on the official website, Milan have confirmed that Sportiello has put pen to paper on a contract until June 2027, meaning he will become the new deputy to Mike Maignan between the posts.
Sportiello spoke to Milan TV after signing his contract with Milan and admitted that it feels like the ‘final step’ in his career.
“I’ve been a Milan fan since birth, I come from a family of Milan fans, so for me it’s a dream come true. It’s a source of pride for me, I want to repay the trust of the club,” he said.
On his idol as a child: “When I was little, the goalkeeper for Milan was Sebastiano Rossi, so he was my role model. I liked his way of playing in goal. There wasn’t anything in particular that made me choose the role of goalkeeper. It helped my physique, I was already quite tall as a child and therefore they directed me towards this role.”
On his arrival at Milan: “I have a certain maturity. I spent several years at Bergamo. I did all the youth ranks. This is the final step.”
On Maignan: “There’s no need to say it. We’re talking about a very strong goalkeeper, one of the best in the world. I can learn a lot from him, even though I’m 31. I’m happy to work with him and with the other goalkeepers.”
On Pioli: “I spent a year with him at Fiorentina. I had a great time, it was a beautiful season. I always felt with him, there is great esteem between us. He gave me a lot, even though we were together just one year. I’m happy to work with him again.”
On playing at San Siro: “On the penultimate day of the season, I played at San Siro against Inter. And I thought a bit that this will be my stadium next year. San Siro is incredible, it will be exciting to play in this stadium.”
On the shirt number: “It refers to July 5, so 5 and 7, which is the date of birth of my daughter and my wife, so I’d say it’s my number.”
Finally, a message to fans: “Hello Milan fans, it’s a real honour for me to be here, I promise I will give my all every day. I send you a big hug. Forza Milan!”
Milanisti since birth. That’s more like it.
Dude, don’t say that out loud – management will sell you in a heartbeat.
Or they will somehow find a way to fail to sign you.
🤣🤣
🤣🤣