AC Milan's new signing this summer, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, has spoken to the media in a press conference as he presented himself. Here are his words:
"During the Milan-Chelsea Champions League I was impressed by the clamour in the stadium. The support from the fans is extraordinary, I saw great passion."
What did Fikayo Tomori tell you about Milan:
"When things started to evolve I talked a lot with Tomori. He told me I would love it here. the fans are fantastic and always support you. I know the long history of Milan. I don't speak Italian yet, so Tomori helped me on that too. I hope to learn the language soon."
Is there any Rossoneri midfielder from the past that you like?
"I loved seeing how Kakà played. I don't want to compare myself to him, but his way of handling the ball is a source of inspiration. Pirlo was also an extraordinary player, even if a little different from me".
You will wear the number 8 shirt...
"I know the weight of this number at Milan. It shows my ambition."
What are Milan's goals this season?
"This season we have to work to always improve. We will have to try to win."
You did very well with Maurizio Sarri...
"The season with Sarri was the best in terms of numbers, the role I held with him was my favourite. During my career I've played in various positions, but I felt more comfortable in that one (as a central midfielder) , in which I can give the greatest contribution to the team, and coming to Milan to play in my favourite position is a very important thing."
Was AC Milan interested in signing you when Paolo Maldini and Frederic Massara in charge?
"When I played against Milan in the Champions League, after that match, Maldini told me he was impressed by my performances. This possibility arose from there and has become increasingly concrete."
Have you heard from Christian Pulisic? Loftus-Cheek said:
"Pulisic will arrive tomorrow. We've already spoken, he'll give us a big hand. I told him he has to give everything because he's among the best in the world."
Now, AC Milan's midfield must be rebuilt...
"Yes, I'm ready. I've had some injuries, now I feel good, to help the team and also be a leader."
What can the decision to come to Milan bring you?
"I'm really happy to be here. I want to give my contribution to the team. I spent many years at Chelsea, but in recent years I was satisfied with my contribution, I was unable to excel and so I think this was the right time to change team and be able to contribute".
In which position do you want to be deployed? Loftus-Cheek said:
"Before signing I also spoke to the coach about my role. I played in other roles at Chelsea. I always try to give my best. I'm really happy to be here."
Why did you choose Milan?
"The history of Milan, there have been many great players here. I couldn't say no to Milan. Here I can grow a lot. A new adventure is starting and it's a great opportunity".
Are you aiming to return to the national team like Tomori?
"If Tomori continues like this, he will return to the national team. It is an objective to return to the national team, but now I only want to think about Milan. At the moment, the national team is not my priority".
What are the differences between the Premier League and Serie A?
"I'll tell you in a few months. I want to bring my physicality here."
Who is your favourite coach?
"I've had several good coaches at Chelsea, perhaps the one who gave me the most was Sarri. I have great respect for him. I did well with him."
How many goals would you like to score?
"I want to play in a position that allows me to score more goals. I want to give my contribution and reach important numbers, but I don't want to put pressure on myself."
Are you good on dead balls?
"I'm tall, I'm a very physical player, so I can also give my contribution on set pieces."
Is it possible for Milan to switch from 4-2-3-1 to 4-3-3?
"I think the role I find best is in a three-man midfield. I feel at ease. If the 4-3-3 is chosen I'll be happy, but I adapt to what the coach chooses."
