Youssouf Fofana is the latest addition to AC Milan's team. Here are his statements in a press conference to the media:
Have you always felt the desire from Milan to have you when speaking with the club? Was this important for you?
"Yes, I have to say that this was very significant when I had to make the decision. When the club calls you and 'sweet-talks' you, it's obvious that you want to go to a place where they want you a lot. Milan is very well-known even in France, they presented their project for the future to me, and it aligned with my ideas."
What kind of midfielder are you? How would you describe yourself?
"What happened in the past, let's leave it in the past. I'm not here to replace Kessié. I am myself, Youssouf Fofana, a modern midfielder who has to work on both sides of the pitch."
Did knowing Theo Hernandez and Mike Maignan influence your decision to come to Milan? Fofana replied:
"As far as I'm concerned, yes. They didn't come to me; I went to them to ask questions about the club and the city. Then there are some French players who play for the 'enemies' (Inter) who spoke well of the club."
You were born on the same day as the first derby win in Milan's history. Do you think it's a sign of destiny?
"I didn't know that, but we'll make sure that destiny is on our side."
About the negotiation between Milan and Monaco:
"Already last year, I had tasted the possibility of coming to Milan, but then I decided to stay at Monaco because of the new project they presented to me. In the end, everyone wins. There were some talks during the season about my renewal, but then I simply said that I wanted to go elsewhere and start a new adventure."
Have you had the opportunity to talk to any of your new teammates yet? Fofana said:
"No, actually, I haven't spoken to anyone yet. I would say that it's important for me to have a good relationship with everyone if I want to be liked."
What do you feel you can promise the Milan fans?
"I'm not here to promise anything. As I said, I really liked the project that was presented to me. I want to win. Period."
Were you ever afraid that this deal would fall through? What led you to choose Milan?
"No, I wasn't afraid. I was just very impatient. The championship starts tonight, and I already wanted to be on the pitch. But it is often said that waiting increases desire, and I am happy to be here among you. I was very patient, they called me telling me to be patient, I was, and today I am here."
What do they say about Paulo Fonseca in France, and what did he tell you to convince you to come to Milan?
"I spoke with the coach very quickly. He told me he was very happy to see me here, very enthusiastic, and couldn't wait to start working with me. I am very happy to be part of his team today, also because when I played against him in France, I always had difficulties, as he expressed a different type of play compared to what we are used to in France."
How did the banter with Moussa Diaby about your transfer to Milan on social media start?
"Moussa is a childhood friend of mine. We grew up together, so he left that comment in a bit of a playful manner. I took it correctly, but I had already made my decision."
Have you spoken with Olivier Giroud? Were there any approaches from Juventus this summer?
"I spoke with Giroud. They waited for me to ask them questions about the club, the fans, and how everything works. Regarding Juventus, I don't know; it's something that concerns my agents."
How long will it take to see the best Fofana?
"There won't be a 'best' version of Fofana. I hope to improve year after year. So, it could be that in September, you believe that is my best version, but it will be every month."
Why did you want Milan so badly?
"I don't know if I can say it, but actually, Milan and I have been in contact for several years. Before, it wasn't possible, but now it is. This was the right moment, for them as well. My experience in France has served me well; now I am a more complete player, and I want to play in the Champions League, win the Scudetto... So, I am really eager to be part of this new adventure.
