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.
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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.
🤣🤣
🤣🤣