AC Milan's results this seaon in the Serie A have been very positive and encouraging so far, having won 5 matches and drew 1 with Juventus. Brahim Diaz has contributed a lot to the club's success in this start of the campaign. His growth is clear.
The Spanish attacking midfielder has granted an interview to Spanish newspaper Diario AS. He said the following:
"I like to enjoy the leadership and be a protagonist, yes, I feel that my personality has grown. I am more inserted than a year ago, I know my teammates better and work is easier like this."
On the fans chanting Brahim Diaz' name:
"For me it is beautiful. The song belongs to Kakà who is a legend, a footballer that any young player admires, he was extraordinary. For me, it is an honor, I am also grateful to the fans for the way they treat me, for the affection from day one. I try to give it back by doing well on the pitch."
On Scudetto hopes:
"If we aim for the Scudetto? Yes, it will be a balanced fight with many teams involved. We are fine, we think from game to game, but I can say that we have a group with talent, sacrifice, an environment that perfectly mixes youth and experience. We will fight until the last day."
On his start to the season:
"This year I get more in goal, it's true, and I want to help the team by playing near the opposing area. The goals are there, but I am much more interested in the results."
On his favorite goal and favourite role on the pitch:
"Well, after seven years without playing in the Champions League, I will never forget scoring at the Anfield, but I also liked what I achieved against Juventus a year ago. As for the favourite role, I adapt to all of them. But, I do feel very comfortable behind the striker, that is true. I like to manage the spaces between the lines and receive many passes."
On wearing the number 10:
"Everyone knows the amount of talents who have worn it and for me it is a privilege. I hope to be up to it, I am trying with all my strength."
On Paolo Maldini:
"We have a wonderful relationship, he has great faith in me, he appreciates my talent and I am very grateful to him and to Massara as well as Gazidis. Then, there is the coach. Everyone wanted me to be here. Paolo as a player was a legend and is also proving his worth as a manager", replied Brahim Diaz.
On Theo Hernandez:
"With me he was fantastic on and off the pitch. He helped me a lot: everyone saw the great footballer he is, but I assure you that he is even better as a person. The trio with him and Castillejo? Well, I'm the quietest of the three (laughs) but we have a lot of fun together. Having companions like them makes your life easier. And yes, the joke is true: on the bus we always disturb those who sit in front."
Thoughts on Ibrahimovic:
"He is like an older brother. He always demands the maximum, but then he gives you great advice. He has great affection for me and this has given me confidence. He always makes a difference, whether you play or not: having him in the team is a plus. He is still very strong and he shows it in every training session."
On the Champions League:
"Liverpool are very strong and that game was difficult. We struggled at the beginning, but afterwards we showed our talent. Scoring two goals at Anfield is not easy: we will continue to fight in the group. Atletico are a tough rival, it will be a difficult match for both teams. We have our weapons, plus we play at home. Atletico Madrid are a team not only rich in talent, but also that work very well and very willing to sacrifice. They have very strong players and I don't choose one because it would be unfair. I prefer to focus on Milan: our group, too, is extraordinary and we are more united than ever."
Brahim Diaz revealed the reason behind his return to Milan:
"I came back because Milan are a great team and I immediately felt the affection of the club and its fans. I had a great time there last year and even now I am very happy here. Future? I enjoy the present and I am happy, I want to continue helping Milan with goals, assists and above all a lot of work. Ancelotti? Carletto is a great coach and a special person. I'm very grateful to him, but now I'm focused on Milan."
On the national team:
"My only presence with the senior national team, against Lithuania, was special: many teammates debuted with me and I even managed to score a goal. It was an incredible feeling and I will continue to give everything on the pitch, waiting for another call from the coach. If I do well, sooner or later it will come", thus concluded Brahim Diaz his interview.
