Olivier Giroud is the newest player to sign for AC Milan in the summer. He has given his first interview to the club's official channel Milan TV. Here are his words:
"I feel like a kid despite being almost 35 years old. As a child I looked up to Jean-Pierre Papin, Andriy Shevchenko and obviously Paolo (Maldini). This team made me dream. I was a big fan also of Marco Van Basten. There were so many great players in this massive club in Europe. AC Milan has a massive history in Europe and that is why I wanted to join them to play in the best competition, Champions League. I'm really excited and looking forward to play the first game."
On winning trophies:
"I feel blessed to have won trophies and playing with big clubs. Milan is a club that deserves to play in the highest level, fight for the scudetto and make a great run in the Champions League. There is also Coppa Italia which is important for the fans too."
On Fikayo Tomori:
"I spoke with Fik (Tomori) a few weeks ago and he said to me 'We're waiting for you to help us win the Scudeto. I don't want to put pressure but we will play for the first place'."
What's a game Giroud can't forget?
"It's easy to remember. It was the World Cup final, it was like a dream. As for the goal that I won't forget is the scorpion kick I performed with Arsenal. I won the Puskas prize. I'm looking forward to give what I can to the fans and please them."
On Mike Maignan:
"I spoke about my arrival to Milan with Mike (Maignan). I think that he will become the first goalkeeper of France national team for sure after Hugo Lloris leaves."
On having Italian origins:
"It's true that both my grandparents were Italians. So, I'm very proud of my Italian origins. I love the country, I learned about it in school. It's still behind the French culture but it's still good (smiles). No, I love it, I'm looking forward to discover it more."
Favourite player:
"My favourite player when I was a teenager was Shevchenko. I'm very lucky to have the opportunity to play like him in this club. I really hope to contribute to the history of Milan like him."
On Ibrahimovic:
"I played a few games against Zlatan. I think that he is exceptional because he plays at such age, 40. He's looking after himself and his body. I try to do that like him, he's an example and one of the best strikers in Serie A. I think we'll have fun. I just want to win with Milan, and with Zlatan, it's even better."
On coach Stefano Pioli:
"When I spoke with Pioli, it was a very honest conversation about tactics and football. It was a natural conversation. I like his way of understanding football. Milan had a great season last year thanks to Pioli. who did a great job. I hope we will continue like this to aim for first place."
A message to the fans:
"Ciao Milan fans, I'm very happy to be here. I will try to learn more Italian words, I will do my best, trust me. I hope that we will enjoy this year."
