Filippo Terracciano was officially unveiled as an AC Milan player yesterday, and he has given his first interview to the club’s media channels following the announcement.
The club’s official website announced yesterday that Terracciano has put pen to paper on a contract with Milan that will run until 2028, therefore a four-and-a-half-year deal, while he will wear the No.38 shirt.
In addition to his age (20), his potential, his 18 months of Serie A experience and the fact he is a home-grown player, of the biggest factors that drew Milan to Terracciano is his versatility.
The Verona academy graduation has played as many as five positions since graduating to the senior team, and a report earlier today suggested that Milan could well use him as a midfielder.
Terracciano gave his first official interview to Milan TV after joining yesterday, with his comments relayed below.
Describe to us your emotions…
“They are very positive emotions. I was welcomed in a fantastic way and so everything so far has been really very nice.”
Did Milan’s youth project convince you?
“I saw that many young players are getting game time. I’m happy to see so many young players playing and I hope to be able to join them too.”
What is your best role?
“I started playing as a midfielder, this allowed me to always do the two phases, attacking and defensive, so from there I started to carry out more duties on the pitch.
“Then I was adapted to full-back. I have held various other roles over the years and I must say that I adapt quickly. I have this flexibility, for any role I have played I have had a very quick adaptation period.”
What is the relationship like between Pioli and your father?
“The main thing is to help the team and make myself available to the coach. My father told me about Pioli in a positive way, that he is a very simple person and I can’t wait to start working with him.”
Do you have memories from playing against Milan at San Siro in September?
“It was the first time I had played at San Siro. The stadium is truly a massive one and therefore I have already felt very strong emotions playing against Milan, so I can’t imagine what it would feel like to play for Milan.”
Who is your idol?
“It was always Cristiano Ronaldo as a child. Then over time I took Kobe Bryant as a model of inspiration, for his work ethic and many other things. I have him as a point of reference.”
Why the number 38?
“My number was 24 especially for Kobe and it is taken [at Milan]. I also chose number 38 when speaking with Udogie who is now at Tottenham. I grew up with him together and we went through the entire youth sector together. I did it for him this reason.”
Finally, a message to the fans?
“Hello to all the Milan fans, I can’t wait to get on the pitch and fight for this shirt.”
There is the possibility that Terracciano could be involved in the game tomorrow against Atalanta at San Siro in the Coppa Italia quarter-final, or potentially against Roma at home on Sunday in the league.
