Tijjani, Reijnders has granted an interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport.
The Dutchman spoke about Milan, his future, and his desire to win with the Rossoneri club.
The Milan badge after the 0-3:
“It meant that Milan belongs to the Rossoneri, because this season Inter never beat us. We showed what we are capable of, and the last derby was the best of the five we played.”
The inconsistency in results:
“On Wednesday we had a great chance to reach the final, and we couldn’t afford to mess it up. Now, winning the Coppa Italia could allow us to qualify for the next European competitions, and we have to go for it. On the pitch we were hungry like dogs, and we also showed a level of quality that hasn’t always been visible throughout the season.”
Explaining his celebration:
“It’s an image that came to my mind some time ago. When I’m at home, I often joke around and if things don’t go the way I want, I say… 'C’est la vie', (French for 'that’s life'). That gesture with my arms sums up my motto, but I prefer to do it on the pitch after scoring a goal rather than when I’m not happy.”
On the importance of family:
“Every player wants to score and provide assists to teammates. Even in the past I came close to scoring, but I wasn’t as clinical as I am now. In the past few months I’ve worked hard, talked with friends and family—especially my father Martin and my brother Eliano—and they helped me understand how to help the team with my play."
Reijnders, how did your father and brother help you?
"My father was a former professional player and opened a football school where he teaches basic technique to kids. My brother and I trained there, and when my dad realized we had the potential to become professionals, he was very strict with us to help us improve. He used to give us—and still gives us—advice. I’m not saying he’s always right, but most of the time he is. We listen to him and work together to get better," he told Gazzetta.
More goals than last season:
“Now I’m more clinical, and compared to last year I get a few more chances to shoot. I owe a lot to Pioli: he gave me confidence, and I have a great relationship with him—both as a coach and especially as a person.”
Difference between cups and the league:
“There’s no real explanation, apart from the fact that we haven’t been consistent in our performances, and in Serie A we’ve dropped a lot of points along the way. A clear example is the win at the Bernabeu against Real followed by a draw in Cagliari: if you want to fight for the Scudetto, you can’t allow that. We need to do much better in this final part of the season and the next one. I’m convinced we’ll improve.”
On the choice to renew with Milan, Reijnders commented:
“Living in Italy and playing for a club like Milan has been my dream since I was a child. My family is happy here, and when the renewal offer came, it was an easy decision. I also thank the club: the directors acted quickly to extend our agreement, and now I’m happy.”
The dream in the drawer:
“To win trophies. This season we can win two, but in the seasons to come my biggest dream is to help Milan earn the second star above the badge. I’m in love with these colors, and it’s an honor to wear the Milan shirt.”
On Sergio Conceicao:
“How much credit does he deserve? A lot. We talked about the possibility of winning two trophies, and we took to the pitch determined to reach the final. The new formation suits the characteristics of the squad. There’s always room for improvement, but we’re on the right track.”
On the away match against Venezia, Reijnders said:
“Beautiful city. I’ve been there as a tourist and had a great time, but this time I’m going… for work. We’ll need to stay focused against Venezia, and avoid thinking about the win against Inter. Before the Coppa Italia final, there are still three matches, and to be well-prepared for May 14, we’ll need to give our best in each league match.”
A simple life...
“My life is simple: I go out with my wife and my son for a walk, a coffee, or to eat something. Especially when the weather is as nice as it has been recently, I really enjoy Milan.”
