Emerson Royal talks to the media in a press conference to present himself to the fans as the newest addition to Paulo Fonseca's Milan.
Here are his statements, as relayed via Milan News:
"Yes, I’ve talked a lot with the club and the representatives. It has always been clear that Milan was the best option for me: I have it in my blood. I can be both an attacker and a defender; I’m eager to do so. Milan has always believed in me. Despite being very young, I have been a leader in every team I’ve been part of: it’s in my character. I talk a lot with my teammates, even during training. I’d like to thank Zlatan and Milan for this opportunity and for the effort to bring me here. I want to do my best."
Do you look up to any historical Milan defenders? Have you spoken with Paulo Fonseca?
"I haven’t spoken personally with the coach yet. Milan has had Thiago Silva, Cafu... I believe all the Brazilians who have passed through here have written a great story for the club. Milan is getting an Emerson who is in very good shape: the time I’ve spent in my former teams has taught me something. I come with a lot of motivation. You have a warrior to count on."
What’s your relationship with Zlatan Ibrahimovic?
"Zlatan makes a difference worldwide; everyone knows that. I used to follow him on TV and he has had an incredible career: he has always shown this desire to win. It was a great satisfaction to know that someone like Ibra was keeping an eye on me. I want to repay this effort and I want to do it on the field."
Do you have any idea of how Paulo Fonseca might use you tactically? Have you talked to other Brazilians about Milan?
"I think the coach knows my characteristics: I’ve shown that I attack and defend with a lot of intensity and as he likes. I come here to play football. Yes, I’ve talked about Milan with other Brazilians, and Milan is a topic of conversation."
How have you experienced these first hours as a Milan player? What are your impressions? What more can you bring to Milan? Emerson Royal answered:
"The first days have been intense: I’ve had many medical exams. Milan is a club that cares a lot about this part of the players. Entering the museum was historic; I was emotional: I don’t get emotional easily. Seeing all the trophies Milan has won... It’s really a dream. Truly, all Brazilians want to come here: it’s an incredible honor for me. A really great and important moment: I can’t wait to wear the shirt."
Can you also play as a center-back?
"I’ve always been able to help teams in every way. Last season, I played out of position: I played as both a full-back and a center-back. I’m here to help, and if the coach wants me to, I’m willing to do anything. In my position, I perform best."
About the number 22, have you spoken with Ricky Kakà?
"Yes, the number 22 has a history with Milan and was Kakà’s: I had this number with the national team. In my best seasons, I had this number. People know that the number 22 at Milan has a very bright past: I haven’t spoken with him yet, but having this legacy is one of the most beautiful things in my life."
What did Dejan Kulusevski tell you?
"He spoke very highly of Ibra. We both play on the right and think about football in the same way. He really likes Italy and said that I will be fine with my family."
How did you experience the summer?
"The last few months have been intense. I traveled with Tottenham and every day I would call my agent and was eager to come here. It was quite complex, a mix of feelings: apprehension and desire. I’m very happy to be here; at times I was scared: time was passing, and there was no final solution."
What aspect of Serie A do you need to get used to? Emerson Royal answered:
"The Italian league is a bit different from those I’ve played in. I think Serie A is more static, but I’ve always been very good tactically and won’t have problems. But I’m eager to learn and do things well: I’ll learn everything they tell me and follow all the necessary instructions."
Have you seen Samuel Chukwueze and Christian Pulisic, how will it be to play with them?
"I’ve watched Milan’s matches. I think Milan overall has an incredible team with great players, and they play great football. It will be a pleasure for me to share the field with all these players. There won’t be problems with players from other roles. I’ve spoken with Leao and Morata: they will help me. I want to make friends with all the players."
Do you see yourself more as a defender or attacker?
"I have both characteristics; I’ve done both: defended and attacked, and I’ve always succeeded and done well. It depends on the team’s shape and the system. If I need to attack for 90 minutes, I’ll do it for 90 minutes. As Ibra said, you need to find the balance."
