David Odogu was AC Milan’s tenth and final signing of the 2025/26 summer transfer campaign. The young German defender, born in 2006, arrived unexpectedly from Wolfsburg and signed a four-year contract with an option for a fifth.
Yesterday afternoon he landed in Milan, underwent his medical tests, and signed the deal. Today, he was already on the pitch at Milanello meeting coach Allegri and the squad.
Here are David Odogu’s words in his first interview with Milan TV.
Joy in your eyes, what are you feeling right now?
“It’s an incredible feeling: a very important day for me and my family. I’m very grateful to be able to sign for such a prestigious club, and I want to thank God, without Him none of this would have been possible. I’m truly happy, proud, and grateful to be part of this team.”
Can you tell us how you reacted to the news? Odogu said:
“It all happened so fast, right on the last day. It was incredible. I still can’t quite believe what has happened over the past 24 hours, so many things took place. It’s a wonderful feeling. I’m just grateful to be here and really happy.”
What’s it like stepping into a locker room full of champions?
“Now I realize that I’m at Milan and will be able to play with footballers like Modric, for example. A year ago, I never would have imagined being on the same team as him. I’ll take him as a role model, being young myself. Overall, the squad is full of great players and I can’t wait to learn from them, because I’m still very young and want to improve. This club gives me the best opportunity to do so," as relayed via Milan News.
How would you describe yourself on the pitch? Odogu answered:
“I want to keep clean sheets and protect our goal. I’m aggressive in one-on-one duels, strong in both individual and team defending. I want to improve physically, become more confident on the ball, get stronger, better in the air, and sharper in defensive work.”
Do you have an idol or role model?
“Milan’s defenders from the past have always been legends like Nesta, Maldini, and Baresi. I’ve always looked up to the best players in my position, though I don’t have a single specific idol. Right now, I like Van Dijk a lot.”
What comes to mind when you see the Rossoneri shirt with your name and number 27 on it?
“I really like it with that number. There’s no special reason behind the choice, but I think it looks good. On my way here I checked which numbers were free and which one would fit best. I think I made a good choice. I like the shirt, the way it’s made, and I like the number.”
What will it be like to play at San Siro?
“It will be incredible. I haven’t been there yet, but I’ll go soon. I’ve watched so many games on TV and I know the stadium’s history, the great matches played there, like the derbies. Imagining myself playing there is incredible, but it’s also a huge responsibility. I want to work hard, grow, and become a great player, playing many matches in that stadium.”
A message for the Milan fans:
“Hi Milan fans, I’m David Odogu and I’m really proud and happy to be here. I can’t wait to see you at San Siro. We want to win. I’ll give everything for myself and for this shirt. Forza Milan!”
