AC Milan midfielder Ardon Jashari spoke exclusively to SportMediaset ahead of an important and delicate clash against Juventus, the first real big match of the season.
Ardon, what kind of energy has Amorim brought?
“He is a new coach, and from the very first day I returned from holiday with the team, he brought a new energy to the entire squad, but I think also to the whole environment and everyone who works here. As players, we can feel it. We feel that it is something new, something different, and that we are heading in the right direction.”
What does coach Amorim specifically ask of you in terms of your work on the pitch?
“Not just me, I think he has clear expectations for every player in the position where he sees them. His idea of how he wants to play is very clear. We have to understand how he wants us to play football and, at the same time, naturally in my position, I have to understand exactly what to do in every situation: when we have the ball, when we don't, where I need to be, when I need to make runs forward, and all those things. But everything is very clear, and I think that with matches and training sessions, it will become increasingly obvious what we need to do on the pitch.”
The first season is always difficult for foreign players in Italy, isn't it? Do you think this is the season when we will see your qualities, the right season for you?
“Yes, I hope so. I hope so because, as we all know, last season I didn't really have the opportunity to show what I can do. My goal is to become the best version of myself, the best version of myself on the pitch for the team. So, when I get the opportunity to play and find my rhythm, I can reach that level. That is definitely the objective for this season, and I will do everything I can to give my best and help the team with my qualities.”
Now there is this big match, Juventus-Milan. Is it a real test? A test to understand the potential of the new Milan? Jashari commented:
“Yes, certainly. I also realised last season how important these matches are. Obviously, the other games are important too, and every match has to be won, but in these kinds of fixtures you feel the fans, the history behind them... they are different. It will be crucial for us to prepare in the best possible way for a big match. It will help us show where we are with our style of play.”
There were reports that Juventus were interested in you. Can you tell us whether that was true or not?
“To be honest, at that time I was on holiday, first during the World Cup and then afterwards. Once the situation regarding the new coach became clear, I spoke with him. My only desire and objective is to reach my highest level at this club. I will do everything for that; I didn't think about anything else.”
You also play padel, right? Are you better at padel or football?
“No, no, obviously football! But padel is something we footballers like to play in our free time. It's a good way to stay active without tiring yourself out too much. When I have some free time, I like playing it with the others.”
New coach, new project, new players (Gonçalo Ramos, Gila, Diego Moreira...). What did you say to the new players?
“I didn't have to speak to them much because they are players who are already accustomed to certain environments. For example, Gonçalo is used to playing for big clubs. I welcomed them in the same way I was welcomed when I arrived. For me, it is important to make them feel like part of the family. What matters is that everyone feels comfortable so that we can all work together towards the same goal.”
At nine years old, you went to San Siro for Milan-Barcelona. Now you play for Milan. Is it a dream?
“Yes, absolutely. I said it when I arrived too: wearing the Milan shirt is a dream for so many people and young players, and I am living that dream. But I am a very ambitious guy, and I am not satisfied simply with being part of the club. I want to show how much I am worth to the team and the fans.”
Let's talk about fashion, another passion of yours. Who is your most “fashionable” teammate? Jashari said:
“Good question! At training, it's difficult to judge because we are all looking for comfort. But every now and then I see that Luka (Modrić, ed.) has experience when it comes to dressing well, and Pavlovic also shows off some nice outfits from time to time. Let's say that when there is an official event, we all dress well!”
You haven't scored for Milan yet. Is Turin the right opportunity to score your first goal for the club?
“That would be fantastic! I had an opportunity last week, but the timing wasn't right. I can't wait to score my first goal, and it would be beautiful if it happened in such an important match.”
