In a recent interview, Matteo Gabbia spoke about the AC Milan team and other important topics.
Here are his statements:
"I think that within the squad, as I mentioned after a match, we also have other center-backs who are very talented, who are complete, and who help raise our level in training because there is a lot of competition in this role," he told SportMediaset. "I obviously try to do my best whenever I'm called upon. I have my own qualities and I try to put them at the team's service. Of course, my teammates also have great qualities, and I respect and support them as they do with me. So, I try to make the most of my abilities, and I'm confident that with the help of all my teammates, we'll achieve better results this season."
Gabbia, it a coincidence that this team shines in high-stakes matches?
"No, I don’t think it's a coincidence. I think nothing happens by chance. I believe our abilities are very high. We are a strong team, made up of great individual talents, but we need to bring our level of focus to the maximum in every game to avoid mistakes that sometimes happen but, in my opinion, don’t do justice to the quality of our team. We need to recognise that we have important responsibilities and try to give 100% focus in every match, so we leave the field without regrets."
There's a bit of a delay in the title race—is that acceptable?
"Time is needed, certainly, but I don't believe it can be an excuse. Obviously, we’re not happy with our points in the league, as my teammates and the coach have already said. We wanted more points in the league, but what we've done so far can't be changed. We need to approach upcoming matches with even more concentration, strength, and dedication to aim for an important future."
Do you still believe in winning the Scudetto? Gabbia commented:
"Milan deserves to be an ambitious club, and we must be an ambitious team. As I said earlier, we have many strong, capable players, so I think our objectives must be high. Ultimately, it depends on us. Our goal when we step onto the pitch is to win every match, and when we get further along, we’ll understand where we can go."
On teammate Rafael Leao:
"Having Rafa fully engaged in the game with us definitely makes a difference. It's obvious that every player goes through ups and downs, but fortunately, Rafa has more positive moments than the occasional tough ones. I'm delighted with what he’s done. He’s a guy who always smiles, who’s working well, and who’s putting in a lot of effort, even in the defensive phase. We’re super proud of what he's doing and are always there for him, even when there’s some outside criticism or rumors that, of course, aren’t pleasant. We know his worth; he’s a true champion, so we support him and know he’ll give back a lot to us."
Is your aim still to move forward wearing the Rossoneri shirt?
"My agent and I have spoken with the club. We’re talking, and they know that Milan is a dream for me. They know I’m not in a hurry or in urgent need to sign tomorrow since I already have a contract. So, I'm very calm and very happy. Obviously, I’d be even happier with a renewal because, for me, this jersey is truly a dream come true. But as I said, I'm happy and enjoy every day with this jersey on, without overthinking," concluded Gabbia.
