Interviewed this morning by La Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan defender Matteo Gabbia spoke about Allegri, Modric, his impressions from the team’s early tour matches, and of course, Milan’s season objectives as the club looks to bounce back after finishing eighth.
Gabbia, how did you first join Milan?
"It was a wonderful surprise and an emotional moment. My dad took me to a café where Mauro Bianchessi (then head of youth scouting) and Luca Grimi, the scout who first saw me, were waiting. They told me Milan wanted me, and for me, it was the best news in the world. I had done other trials, but I was a Rossoneri fan, and like every kid, I dreamed of playing for the team I loved."
You’ve become something of a symbol for Milan fans. Gabbia answered:
"I don’t consider myself a symbol of Milanismo, just a guy lucky enough to play for the team he’s always supported. I’m incredibly happy and proud of that. Staying here takes consistency and determination every day, and I try to give my best."
How many times have you rewatched your goal in the first-leg derby win last season?
"Quite a few times (laughs). It was a magical moment—something unforgettable. I’m lucky to have lived out a dream like that."
You were also part of the Scudetto-winning season.
"It was an amazing year. The group was tight-knit, full of great people and great players. We still keep in touch because we’ve remained friends, and even now, those memories still move us. I hope to experience similar joys with this team in the future."
What did your time at Villarreal teach you?
"Those six months were very important. I got to know a new league and tested myself in a different environment—with new opponents and a different language. It helped me grow both as a footballer and as a man. Now I’m more attentive to teammates coming from abroad because I’ve personally experienced the challenges of adapting to a new country."
In 2012, when you joined Milan, Massimiliano Allegri was already there. Now, 13 years later, you’re working with him…
"Having Allegri as coach is a source of pride. I remember watching him as a kid when he coached a Milan full of champions that won the Scudetto and the Supercoppa. It’s great to be working with him now."
What do you like about Massimiliano Allegri?
"His daily approach to work—full of dedication and attention to detail. His staff is also very well-prepared, and they’ve made a great impression, bringing fresh air to a team coming off a tough season. They’ve given us confidence and a sense of unity. We’re happy with the atmosphere being created and we’re looking to the future with optimism."
Is someone like Massimiliano Allegri the right man to restart Milan? Gabbia said:
"Absolutely. The coach and his staff are the right people to relaunch us and have a successful season because of their experience and impressive track record. We’ll follow them to achieve the results that a club like Milan deserves."
How do you see the dressing room now, after such a disappointing season?
"Let’s say we’ve reset and started again with a united mindset and a desire to bounce back after a 2024–25 campaign that didn’t reflect the true value of this squad. We’re hungry, united, and focused on having a great season. I see a group that’s working well and I’m confident we’ll stay united in every moment."
Are you ready to welcome Luka Modric?
"Having Luka in the team is fantastic. Playing alongside a Ballon d’Or winner and a player of his caliber is something very few get to experience. We’re eager to learn from him and will welcome him in the best way possible so he can be a key figure both on the pitch and in the locker room."
Did you like Milan’s performances against Arsenal and Liverpool?
"They were very good tests, and we managed to do the things the coach asked of us. There’s still room to improve, and we’ll keep working. Now we’ve got another game coming up, and we’ll try to take another step forward as we prepare for the Coppa Italia."
What will you do on Champions League nights? He answered:
"I haven’t really thought about it. Maybe I’ll watch a few matches, but there will definitely be some regret about not being in the Champions League. That regret will turn into motivation to get back there."
Champions League qualification is Allegri and Tare’s stated goal... Gabbia commented:
"Milan, because of its history, doesn’t deserve to be out of the Champions League. We’ll do everything we can to bring the club back to where it belongs. That’s the top priority for the season."
