AC Milan's French midfielder, Youssouf Fofana, discussed his moment in Serie A and his career overall.
Here are his statements:
On the upcoming game against Juventus:
"Last year, I watched it on TV, especially since there were many French players. It’s like a derby with a lot of intensity on the field and in the stands," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
Juventus is also restarting with a new project under head coach Thiago Motta.
"Motta is an excellent coach. Last year, he did a great job in Bologna, qualifying for the Champions League. This year, he has more quality in the team, so it’s natural they’re rising. It will be a tough game, and the best team will win."
Milan is a bit behind, but the standings are tight.
"We’d like to be higher. We’ve had a few less positive results, but that means we have a lot of room for improvement, while staying less exposed. Once we start maintaining continuity in play and results, teams will have to contend with us. I believe in our coach’s work and in the quality of my teammates. I’m sure we’re on the right path."
So, is Milan aiming for the Scudetto? Youssouf Fofana replied:
"Of course, we’re Milan. Milan has to compete for the Scudetto every year. Give us a bit of time to work, and we’ll see where we are later."
In the meantime, you’ve adapted quickly to Serie A...
"That’s because I knew the project I accepted, with full willingness for the coach who gave me a chance. I like Serie A. It’s different from Ligue 1, where each team has two or three key players; once you shut them down, you can dominate. In Italy, all teams follow a tactical strategy until the final whistle, which makes it harder."
What does Paulo Fonseca ask of you?
"Balance, to act as a link between defense and attack, to be the first to set up the play and the first to defend, filling the spaces left by my teammates, as we’re a very mobile team. I move the least, filling the gaps, as a player in the background. I’m getting used to it, and I like it because it allows me to improve."
Zlatan Ibrahimovic is also very important...
"Right from the start, he explained the project to me and the importance of Milan to him and Serie A. He’s very invested in the new course. He’s always present and positive. Before games, he always gives us a couple of tips. He instills confidence."
Who among your teammates has impressed you the most?
"I actually expected this quality. I already knew some from the Euros, like Reijnders or Leao."
As a box-to-box midfielder, what qualities make the difference in Italy?
"My physical qualities, in tackling and ball recovery. And then my orientation and reading of the game, observing my teammates, sometimes just to slow down the pace, maybe even looking to draw a foul to let them catch their breath."
You trained both in the streets of Paris and at Clairefontaine: is your game instinctive or studied?
"I can do both. The important thing is adapting to my teammates. For example, Leao is an instinctive player and needs support. With more academic teammates, I focus on the essentials."
Ten years ago, you were without a team. Do you ever think about that?
"Always. It keeps me grounded. I remind myself I started a bit late, and I’m trying to make up for lost time. It’s important for me to challenge myself every day."
At the time, you were delivering pizzas... Youssouf Fofana revealed:
"It taught me discipline and the importance of earning my first money. Now I always tip delivery riders; I know it matters. I’ve had a lot of good pizzas in Milan, but I don’t go out much—I prefer to stay home and watch movies."
Which players have inspired Youssouf Fofana the most?
"Yaya Touré, or Ndombele at Lyon. Generally, players who dictate the game and know when to pass or keep the ball," he said.
How helpful has working with a psychologist been? the ex Monaco midfielder said:
"At first, I wasn’t interested, but I soon realized how crucial it is. It helps me visualize the game, orient myself without looking, anticipate the opponent's play, and gain a couple of seconds that make all the difference in today’s football. And I can gain even more seconds."
Does the perfect pass exist for you?
"Of course, when the ball arrives at the right time, at the right speed, on the right foot of your teammate, making their job easier."
What do you think about the Ballon d'Or awarded to Rodri? Youssouf Fofana said:
"I would have given it to Vinicius, but Rodri deserves it for what he’s been doing with Manchester City for the last three or four seasons. He’s complete; he defends, scores, and assists. When he plays, the team doesn’t lose. Still, everyone would have been happier if Rodri had won it last year and Vinicius this year."
In your first Serie A matches, have you noticed any interesting players?
"I was quite impressed by a few guys from Parma."
What does Youssouf Fofana think of the Champions League win at the Santiago Bernabeu against Real Madrid? Is it also inspiring for the Serie A campaign as well?
"It was a great win against such a prestigious club. It feels good and boosts confidence, but it’s just three points. We’re Milan, and we want to go as far as possible in every competition."
How was your first derby wearing the Rossoneri shirt?
"Maignan and Theo Hernandez had told me a lot about it, and I couldn’t wait to be there. And after what happened in the first leg, I can’t wait to play in the return match."
