AC Milan's central midfielder, Sandro Tonali, gave an interview to UEFA ahead of the quarter-final return match of the Champions League between Napoli and Milan. The Milan number 8 spoke about the emotions of the competition both past and present. Here are his statements:
"It's great to be back here again. All these years of absence haven't been good for Milan and the fans. It's fantastic to be playing these games again and winning again in the knockout stages of the Champions League. It's great for the fans, who give us incredible energy. We're all united and playing in the Champions League is always amazing, especially at San Siro."
Tonali on the memories of the past:
"It was an indescribable feeling, I'm lucky to remember it, especially the 2007 season. I remember a lot about that Champions League: the emotions, the celebrations... My earliest memories of football are tied to my neighborhood, my passion was born there. I have many memories, but the first one that comes to mind is playing football with my friends and my brother from morning to night, it was normal to do so."
Tonali concluded:
"My Grandmother? We have a unique relationship. She doesn't like football, or she didn't like it, but since I started playing, she hasn't missed a game. That makes me very happy. She calls me often after games and during the week she asks me when I'm playing and where she can watch me. I'm very close to my family because they've given me so much. They come to see me fairly often and that gives me an extra boost. It's always nice to know that your family is in the stands, I'm proud of it."
