Fresh off his contract renewal, AC Milan defender Matteo Gabbia spoke on the club's official channels about the new deal:
"I am definitely very happy. It's truly a great moment for me, personally. I'm happy because it's a dream come true and the continuation of a story that began many years ago. So, I'm really, really happy," as relayed via Milannews.it.
On the moment he's experiencing:
"I've reached a point in my career where I feel important to the team. I feel valued in everything that makes up the environment at Milanello and Casa Milan. Consequently, I am very happy, and I hope this can be the beginning of something even more beautiful in the years to come."
On being a Milan-born player playing for Milan:
"For me, living calmly with my family, and soon my wife, with the circle of people around me, is something very important. I'm happy to share all moments with them because they make me feel at home, both in good times and bad. Consequently, I’m fortunate to play for the team of my city. Even when I step onto the pitch, I feel at home. It's something magical, fantastic, and I couldn’t be happier."
On his role as a player, Gabbia said:
"I try to bring out the positive qualities within me, both as a person and an athlete. I aim to convey to my teammates what I can, and honestly, there's not much I need to do on that front because all my teammates are ultra-professional individuals and athletes. From this perspective, I’m very happy. I know I need to keep pushing on these two fronts to continually achieve better goals."
What does Milan represent as a club?
"History, passion, responsibility, because they truly represent what Milan is," said Matteo Gabbia. "Right now, I hope that, with these years of my contract and the time that will tie me to this fantastic club, I can further cement my place in its history, striving to achieve satisfaction together with my teammates by winning titles that undoubtedly secure our place in the history of such a glorious club."
On the team’s goals, Gabbia said:
"The team’s goals are straightforward: we need to keep growing continuously and find consistency, which must be very important for us this season. Then, of course, as I always say, Milan's goal is to step onto the field every match and win. This is what we need to have in our minds, focusing on each game as it comes."
On his personal goals, Gabbia replied:
"Personally, my goal is to continue earning the trust of this club, which always deserves commitment, dedication, and sacrifice. And, as I mentioned earlier, my personal objectives are very much aligned with those I’ve just outlined for the team."
A message to the Rossoneri fans:
"Thank you so much to all AC Milan fans. I am very happy to be here to announce this renewal. A big hug, and see you at San Siro."