Malick Thiaw, AC Milan's defender, gave an exclusive interview to the 'Corriere dello Sport'. Here are the statements of the former Schalke 04 talent:
On already being a leader of this Milan:
"I don't think so because that's not something that comes quickly, I have to earn it on the field. I can try to become one, but in these cases, it takes time. For sure, it has been an important challenge for me, moving from the Bundesliga to the Italian league two years ago: this is a tough and very tactical context, where attackers are physically strong and great concentration is required. My time at Milan has taught me a lot."
On his impact in Italian football and how it has tactically changed his way of playing:
"I don't think a specific setup is necessary to defend well. We all work as a unit and as a team. The formation doesn't matter much, also because I feel comfortable with both systems. With Milan, we've played both with a four-man defense and a three-man defense, as was already used at Schalke 04."
On regrets for this season with Milan, Thiaw said:
"Let's say it has been a continuous learning experience; when something doesn't go well, you have to learn. Also, because personally I've had some injuries. But the important thing is not to get discouraged, trying to do better. Moving forward, the most important thing is always to make oneself available. Then I can do better, I repeat, and aim for both physical and mental growth. If you don't have these components, it becomes impossible to take extra steps."
On Milan fans who didn't appreciate the end of the season:
"We understand it, also because it's Milan, which is a great team. Our fans have every right to be angry because they show love. And we as players know we definitely have to do better. That people aren't satisfied with our performances is something to accept. We also need to listen, thinking we can achieve different results next season."
On the past year with Paolo Maldini as director, Thiaw commented:
"Enough to give me special advice, since he is a great player: those I keep for myself. I believe he was one of the best, if not the absolute best, defenders of all time. I'm young and I've seen Maldini play little, but I've watched many videos. And it was really a pleasure to be able to be with him for a year here at Milan. An opportunity that is very valuable for my career."
On his arrival from Schalke 04 thanks to Paolo Maldini:
"It's true, I received a call from my manager who told me to have a call with Maldini because he wanted to talk to me. I was very surprised at that moment, knowing that Milan was interested. Then everything went well, and I made the right choice."
On the possibility of being called up to the Euros with Germany under Julian Nagelsmann:
"I hope to be there, of course. Let's see if I'll be called up..."
