Strahinja Pavlovic, Milan’s Serbian centre-back, has become an important player for Massimiliano Allegri's Milan. The former Salzburg player has spoken to the official channels of his national football federation.
Here are his statements about the Rossoneri world, as relayed via Milan News.
What’s the most impressive stadium you’ve played in?
"San Siro. Absolutely. On Thursday I’ll play at Wembley for the first time, but I’m almost sure it can’t compare to San Siro. The stadium in Milan is a real temple of football."
Who’s the most stylish player at Milan?
"I wouldn’t say Rafa Leão (laughs). No, he’d be last. I’d say… me! I like my style. Rafa has his own way, very unique, you only need to look at his Instagram. Milan offers so many options, it’s easy to dress how you like and feel comfortable."
On his celebration after scoring against Roma:
"Yes, I wanted to use that moment to celebrate the goal and ‘announce’ that I’ll soon become a father. Another wonderful thing for me and my family. Everything’s going great for now, and I hope it stays that way. The due date is in April… and if by then we manage to qualify for the World Cup playoffs, that would be perfect!”
On the current season:
"Milan is a huge club. When we win, there’s no better place in the world than Milan the next day. But we have to stay grounded, because things can change fast. Serie A is very balanced this year, with many teams fighting for the Scudetto and the top four. We must stay focused and, with a bit of luck, we can achieve great things.”
On the Derby:
"As for Inter, last season I played three of the five matches against them and we never lost. I’d like that positive streak to continue, but everyone knows how strong Inter are."
On Luka Modric, Pavlovic said:
"No one has an explanation for him, I wish I had one! I often ask him: ‘Are you feeling fine? Come on, tell me the secret!’ He’s an incredible person, and there’s no need to talk about his footballing qualities. He gives us so much, he’s brought the confidence we were missing. When I pass him the ball, I know I don’t need to worry anymore. It’s unbelievable that at 40 he’s in such shape. Now, for example, since we have a week between games (we’re not in European competitions), the coach often adds a gym session on the third day, with double training sessions. I remember at Partizan, older players almost didn’t go to the gym, but he does everything, like a machine."
On Massimiliano Allegri:
“I was very disappointed after the opening loss against Cremonese. I felt this could be a great season, and then you lose the first game at home conceding two goals from two half-chances… I was down. The next day I saw him, and he told me to relax, that it was only the start. I said, ‘Yes, but we can’t concede two goals like that.’ And he replied, ‘Don’t worry, you’re 24, still young for a defender, everything will be fine.’ He has a great way with players, talks to everyone in the dressing room, and is a very positive person. That’s one of his biggest strengths.”
