Zachary Athekame, the new AC Milan player, presented himself to the journalists in a press conference today. Here are his statements:
Question: What was the first thing that struck you about the world of Milan?
"I think we all know the club’s history. I think it’s a huge club, and that immediately caught my attention, along with the project. I want to give 100% for the team and improve. I think that’s the most important thing."
Does seeing a legend like Mauro Tassotti inspire you?
"Yes, of course. As I said, I’m surrounded by fantastic players, and that pushes me to give 100% both in matches and in training."
With you on board, will Milan also try to break through on the right? Do you see yourself as an offensive or more conservative player?
"I think in training we work well on all aspects. It’s true that on the left there was a very effective combination. As for me, I really like going forward, but aside from that, I can say that as a team we work well on both flanks."
Athekame spoke about his characteristics:
"Basically, I play in a back four. Now, whether it’s four or five at the back, I’m available. I still prefer to play as a full-winger in a 3-5-2. I’m here to be at the coach’s disposal. If he puts me as a side player in a back three, I’ll be available, as I will be in other positions too."
When did the first contact with Milan happen? What was your reaction?
"My reaction was very strong; it was an intense emotion. Of course, you have to stay composed, but I was amazed. But I’m here to work and get to work. It was about three weeks ago—I don’t remember the exact date. And clearly, I was very happy."
Is there more pride or nervousness about playing at San Siro?
"I don’t think there’s any nervousness. As we all know, Milan is a historic club, with a wonderful stadium, which makes you want to give 400%, and that can only add extra motivation for the players."
On the importance of the defensive phase for Massimiliano Allegri, Athekame said:
"With the coach, we work a lot on tactics and defense, and we manage to do it well. We know that defense is very important, and Allegri emphasizes it a lot. At Milanello, everyone impressed me. There are fantastic players with enormous experience, so my impression was very positive."
On childhood idols and the first impression of Italian football after the Champions League matches against Atalanta and Inter:
"I played against Inter and Atalanta. When you play against teams of that caliber, they are ready, they bring intensity, and that struck me. I draw a lot of inspiration from Daniel Alves, as well as many other players who play on the right flank."
How is Swiss football developing? Athekame commented:
"The Swiss league is made up of many players who play, go abroad, and take the next step. When you’re young, you play a lot to improve and then move to another league, just as happened with me."
What was it like approaching Milan’s dressing room full of champions? What kind of advice did they give you?
"Everyone welcomed me very well. I believe the dressing room is very close-knit, and players of this caliber set an example. I’m very happy to play alongside them."
What has your journey given you, as a player and as a person?
"I think it’s an inspiring journey that gives me a lot of desire and motivation. It’s a big challenge to be at a club like Milan, and I’m ready to seize it and give my best."
As a full-back playing at a high level, who do you draw inspiration from? What level do you want to reach?
"I have some good benchmarks in this regard. But I don’t really like comparing myself to others. I draw inspiration from very strong players, but I prefer to focus on myself. As I said, it’s important to be inspired by these players, but it’s even more important to concentrate on yourself."
What objectives have you found in the dressing room? Have you set any personal ones?
"Milan is a historic club, with an important history. We have objectives, of course, we’re a very big and prestigious club. I think it’s important to focus on the present, not the future, and what matters most is concentrating on the first matches, on the present," said Athekame.
In what areas do you think you can improve?
"As you said, I’m very young. I can improve in every aspect; I have a lot to learn, and I’m in a team where I can do that. In Italy, the tactical aspect is very important. I’m young, I enjoy learning, and I’m highly motivated to improve, especially alongside such important players."
How much did coach Massimiliano Allegri influence your decision?
"The impact was positive. I wanted to come here. It’s true that he is an important coach. I’ve seen that he is very disciplined, and that is very important for me, and it will allow me to improve a lot."
