Emerson Royal signed for Milan. The Brazilian is finally a Rossoneri player and was introduced today to the media in a press conference.
To get to know the new full-back better, Milan News spoke with Dr. Fabiano de Abreu Agrela, the player's consultant and neuroscientist.
Emerson Royal is finally at Milan. It was a rather long negotiation that seemed stuck: what are the first impressions?
"There were many offers, but Royal didn't think about the money; he thought about the best team where he would have the most motivation. For a Brazilian, playing in Italy is almost like playing in Brazil. There are 30 million Brazilians (of Italian descent); Italian culture is part of Brazilian culture. Especially in São Paulo, where Royal comes from."
What was Emerson Royal's market like in recent months? Were there other clubs interested in him? And why did Emerson choose Milan specifically?
"Many, from many European countries, from Brazil, and the Arab world. I joked with Royal at the time, saying Milan because in Brazil, Flamengo fans are for Milan, and they are teams with human warmth, with a large population. But as I said above, the culture and way of playing are more like Brazil."
The number 22 shirt for Milan means a lot, having been worn by Kaká. What does the number 22 mean to Emerson?
"Kaká is a great person, a great name in Brazilian football history, and was one of the main reasons for Milan's fans in Brazil. We hope to bring joy to Milan fans as well."
What are Emerson Royal's best qualities as a player and as a person?
"He has a high-level performance, with a good multidisciplinary team. He understands the importance of mental balance and knows how to use it very well to his advantage. He is also the type who wears the shirt, cheers, gets excited, and brings motivation. Besides being a full-back, he adapts well to other positions."
Emerson Royal has shown he can play in many roles, but what is his preferred position?
"Full-back... but as he always tells me, he always wants to contribute, he plays for the team."
What do you expect from Milan and the Italian league? What are your goals?
"We always expect the best from Milan in Brazil, as it is a reference club. And again, it is the colours of the largest fanbase in Brazil (laughs)."
