Speaking of Filippo Terracciano was his father, Antonio, who said the following words to the microphones of Mlannews.it:
Question: On Friday, you saw him at the Bentegodi wearing the Milan shirt, and as a starter no less. How did that feel?
“It feels like something out of a storybook: playing at home, in the stadium where I played too. Where we both grew up. And all of this in front of friends and former teammates. For us, it was a source of pride. Of course, after the game, some friends were a little upset, but that’s part of it (laughs). In short, it was a lovely Christmas gift for us.”
As a former Hellas player, who were you rooting for? Antonio Terracciano said:
“That’s the recurring question: I was rooting for Filippo, but also for Hellas. Anyway, it all worked out; I hope Verona gets back to winning in the next game.”
Paulo Fonseca has been using him in multiple roles.
“I believe they’ve seen something unique in Filippo. He has this ability to put all his skills and football knowledge at the coach’s disposal. Players like that are always appreciated because they adapt to whatever is needed, trying to give their best without complaining. If he’s asked to play on the left, he plays on the left. In Verona, he even played as a center-back.”
The first six months were challenging...
“We were surprised when he moved from Verona to Milan—it was a significant leap. Filippo needed, and still needs, time because Milan’s world is completely different from Verona’s reality. Some players are already mature enough for such contexts at 20, but Filippo found himself in a world he had to get to know. From the start, he showed great humility, working hard without saying a word and accepting all decisions, even criticism. He had a strong desire to improve.”
Was there a chance he could have left last summer due to limited playing time?
“Certainly, the thought crossed Filippo’s mind. But the club always showed complete trust in him. When offers came in, the club was clear and reaffirmed their trust in him, and we appreciated that because we felt their confidence. Now it’s up to Filippo to repay that trust. There’s a journey to be made. Mother Nature may not have given him the gifts of a superstar, but he’s a hard worker and has a great mindset.”
There’s been talk of a loan move in January. Antonio Terracciano commented:
“So far, nothing has come to us from the club. I know there are some inquiries, but Filippo hasn’t been informed of anything.”
What does your son want?
“Filippo always says, ‘If the club wants me, I’ll stay here.’ And as of today, we haven’t received any communication about loans or transfers.”
Can we say he’ll stay at Milan, then?
“In football, everything can change from one day to the next. Situations and dynamics we’re unaware of can arise. But as I said, we’ve received no communication on the matter.”
What do you think is Filippo Terracciano’s ideal role?
“It’s hard to say. I think Filippo is still evolving as a footballer. He’s always done well in central midfield for the national teams. In Verona, he played on the right side of a back three and performed well. He’s also done well as a wingback. I believe his versatility is not a limitation, but a strength, especially in today’s football, where roles are more fluid. That said, players are used based on their characteristics. If you ask me if he could be Theo’s backup, I’d say no, because he doesn’t have those qualities—he’s not built for the runs down the wing like Theo.”
