Andrej Kostic, the Montenegrin striker born in 2007 who joined AC Milan from Partizan Belgrade, is making the most of the opportunity to take part in the start-of-season training camp with the Rossoneri first team. MilanNews.it interviewed his agent Darko Ristic exclusively. Here are his words:
On training with the first team under Ruben Amorim:
“Yes, he has been training with the first team for a few days now and, naturally, we speak almost every day. He is really enjoying this experience and has been extremely impressed by everything he has seen so far. He has only positive things to say about Rúben Amorim. From the way he communicates with the players to the ideas he wants to implement, Andrej says it is very clear what the coach wants to build and the direction in which he intends to take the team.”
In Italy, there has been talk of the possibility of a loan move to Serie B to aid his development ahead of next season. Is that a realistic possibility?
“Milan know better than anyone what the best solution is for his development and his career path. From my side, I can only say that, at this moment, Andrej is completely focused on Milan. Right now, he is thinking only about giving his best in today’s training session and tomorrow’s. He is taking his journey one step at a time.”
Has Milan already outlined a specific plan for his future?
“Absolutely. Milan signed Andrej because they see him as an investment for the future, but also as a player who is already capable of competing on an important stage. He is a hugely talented forward who, despite his young age, has already gained significant experience both in senior football and at international level. I am convinced that Milan have a clear plan for his development, and we are fully aligned with the club. The priority is to help him fully express his potential, step by step.”
How would you describe Kostic to Milan fans in three adjectives, so they can get to know him better?
“Ambitious. Brave. Determined. And if I could add a fourth word: a winner.”
Do you believe Kostic is already ready to play in Serie A?
“I believe he will have his opportunities at the right moment, in the right way and in line with Milan’s plans. I have always believed that every footballer can improve, regardless of their talent. Can he make an impact in Serie A already this season? Absolutely yes, I am convinced of that. He possesses that special X-factor that cannot truly be taught. At the same time, we are in no rush. The most important thing is that his development path is managed correctly. If that happens, everything else will come naturally.”
When Milan showed their interest in him, how did you react? Were the Rossoneri always your first choice?
“As I said, several clubs had shown concrete interest in Andrej before and during the winter transfer window. But the moment Milan entered the picture, everything became very clear. For Andrej, for his parents and for me, Milan immediately became the first and only choice.”
In the coming months, there will inevitably be talk of possible competition between Kostic and Camarda. Do you think both players can fulfil their potential and play an important role in Milan’s future?
“Camarda is a player with immense talent. They are both part of a young and exciting generation, and I think it is a positive thing that they can push each other every day. Healthy competition helps young players improve. I genuinely believe that both of them have all the qualities needed to become important players for Milan in the future and to play leading roles in Italian and European football. From Milan’s perspective, it is a very good ‘problem’ to have.
