Noah Okafor, who arrived at Milan from Salzburg in the summer, gave these words to Trasfermarkt's microphones:
"I arrived in Italy with a minor injury, so initially I stayed training away from the team, which was on tour in the United States."
On joining Milan:
"They contacted me after the Champions League match, when I scored against them in the 2022/23 group stage. We couldn't reach an agreement for the winter transfer market, but fortunately we did last summer. I had other options but I was immediately fascinated by Milan. It's a big step forward for me, one that shouldn't be forgotten, but I have great confidence in myself."
On the weight of expectations, Okafor said:
"It's a matter of adaptation. I knew what it would be like to come here. I played at San Siro as an opponent with RB. Here it's all different, you have a big match every week, the stadium is always full. If you know how to fit into such a context properly, you can't wish for anything better than this. Maybe only two or three clubs I consider bigger than mine. I immediately found a warm environment and immediately connected with the other teammates, many of whom are also new. Leao helped me a lot to integrate."
Regarding his teammate Rafael Leao:
"We have similar characters. We share the same ideas, both on and off the field. We love to joke around and we're similar players in terms of characteristics. Competition with Leao? It doesn't worry me. I was aware that I wouldn't be a first choice and that I would have to be patient for my chance. I have to be ready, earn this spot, and then become a starter. Progress can be made even in a short time. There are players here with great experience. I can learn in every training session and game snippet. The coach talks to me often, knows my qualities, and takes them into account. He told me to keep going this way. My day will come."
Okafor added:
"I always picked Milan in PES (Pro Evolution Soccer) (laughs). They had the best players on the team, won the Champions League 7 times. How could I not admire them? My childhood goal was to reach such a high-level team. Now I'm here. I'm doing well and I want to stay that way, free from injury. About the role? I feel like a left winger but there's Rafael there and I have to be patient, but I also see myself as a second striker."
