AC Milan's centre-back, Matteo Gabbia, has spoken to the media, like coach Stefano Pioli, in a press conference today and said these words ahead of tomorrow's fixture against Rennes. Here are his words:
You went away when you were "Gabbia" and came back as "Gabbione." Do you feel the affection of your fans?
"Honestly, at this moment, I'm focusing much less on the peripherals, such as social media or television. I'm concentrating on what we, as players, as professionals, need to do. I'm happy that we are winning matches, that the season is going well, and that's the most important thing, to keep moving forward and always do better."
What kind of opponent is Rennes?
"I think they're a very strong, direct team. They have fast, dynamic players who can pose a challenge for us. We've prepared well for the match, we know what to expect, and therefore we'll do our best to bring home a victory that can help us achieve our goal of qualifying."
What is the key to your performance? Gabbia replied
"I think it's the work and the motivation for self-improvement among us players. The consistency we put into our daily routines leads to improvements.
Who will be beside you tomorrow night, Theo or Kjaer?
"The coach will decide (laughs)."
Gabbia spoke also about the experience at Villarreal:
"It was the first time I went to another country. It was a significant change. I had to be a bit more daring, learn completely new things that gave me more confidence. I played more consistently, in a different way. Essentially, there were a few things that helped me."
On the relationship with Raul Albiol:
"Raul was one of those guys who helped me a lot at Villarreal. He also spoke Italian, so especially at the beginning, it was easier to talk to him. He's a very good guy, I have a good relationship with him, he gave me advice, so it's fair to mention his help in this improvement."
On the "new" defensive phase:
"I found the defensive phase with similar foundations to the past. Compared to how we play, some situations can change, but honestly, I found myself in line with the things we've always done with the coach."
On the contribution Gabbia made to Milan in the build-up phase:
"I don't feel like I've improved my build-up phase that much. I can still do more, and the coach tells me that too. In other aspects, though, I feel I've improved, but it's also a matter of growing over time, playing more games, and improving certain situations. It's a phase that I faced more in Spain due to the playing style there."
Did you return to Milan aware that you could play as a starter?
"Since I've returned, I've thought about working as best as possible. Whether I start or not is a decision for the coach. My attitude towards daily work doesn't change much anymore. If I play, I'm happier."
Is your "youth" over because you have to lead the defense with Jan-Simic beside you? Gabbia replied:
"It was nice to manage the defense, but in that moment of the game, everyone helped. Therefore, helping Jan-Carlo Simic, who is "new," in this situation is definitely a task that we've shared among us. Plus, Carlo is an excellent player, and if the coach puts him on the field, it means he knows what he has to do. 24 years old? I still feel young (laughs)."
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