AC Milan young defender, Pierre Kalulu, has granted an interview to Eurosport as he discussed multiple topics such as his current moment and spell so far with the Rossoneri:
"It's true that I've been playing matches since January, thanks or due to certain absences. But that is football. I am always ready. When you are in a club like AC Milan, which is more of an insitution, you must always feel like a starter. When you're needed on the pitch, you must be ready. I think everyone thinks like that, and I do too."
On his position in the field:
"My preferences change during the games and based on the other team we face. It all depends on how you play. I can take pleasure in playing as a full-back in some matches, while in other games, as a central defender. It all depends on the match we play. I don't have a preference. In my training with OL (Olympique Lyonnais), I played in many positions."
Milan directors did not sign a centre-back in the winter, is a sign of the trust they put in you?
"We are used to rumours. Since I've arrived to Milan, there were always rumours, this time, it was about a defender. We adapt. But it's obvious that when I see certain statements (of Paolo Maldini), it gives me great pleasure, especially when they come from a former legend of the same position I play. It is rewarding."
Alessandro 'Billy' Costacurta said he is amazed by your progress:
"When it's former great players who say this kind of thing, there is bound to be something more. They know top-level football and the characteristics of the position, with all the components that go with it. The position of a centre-back can be a little tricky, one error can be costly and waste all the work of the team. More generally, compliments are always pleasant, whether it comes from journalists or people in your daily life."
How do you stay calm?
"Honestly, players of my generation were formed with this spirit. There was a lot of expectation around us from a very young age, especially when you are trained at the club. At Olympique Lyonnais, players were formed and trained for the Champions League and not just Ligue 1... Unconsciously, you become ready and prepared."
Kalulu on what he has discovered so far at Milan:
"As a youngster, I kind of missed the big years of the club. Arriving here, I really discovered its immensity. There are supporters everywhere (laughs). Wherever we go outside, in Rome, Salerno or even more in the South, there are always supporters waiting for the team at the airport or hotel. It's important, you can feel that they are always with you. Honestly, I didn't expect that. Here, there is always a requirement for results, whether in training or in matches. Here, there is always a requirement for results, whether in training or in matches. There is a minimum level to have and you must always give the maximum. It is the mark of big clubs."
On Zlatan Ibrahimovic's effect, despite his injuries:
"He still has a very important place in the locker room and on the pitch, where he has scored many goals again this season. We can say that it is thanks to him that we are on the right track today. It is now up to us to prove that we understood what he tried to teach and show us. When he returns to the field, we'll be better."
On Olivier Giroud:
"Giroud is a player of a very high level. Most importantly, he always has this desire to grow, learn and score. What impresses me is his movement and intelligence on the field. I have obviously followed him in other clubs, but on a daily basis, you can see his high level. In addition, he learned to speak Italian quickly. It is not perfect yet, but it will come to him (laughs). He just scored 4 goals in 3 games. Giroud imposes respect. When he is well, it is good for us."
On Mike Maignan:
"If he is the best goalkeeper in Serie A? For me, yes, after his first half of Serie A season. He knew how to save us many times and he is impressive with his feet. Mike behaved like a leader from the moment he arrived, even when he didn't speak the language. He does not hesitate to say what he has to say to guide us. He is a player with a strong work ethic on a daily basis. Just seeing it (the work ethic) makes you want to follow it. We can say that he is a natural leader, in the field and with his words. He also has the experience of winning. Now, he started making assists..."
On Yacine Adli who will arrive to Milan in the summer:
"More French in Milan? For me, it does not bother me (laughs). We speak French with each other. However, on the field, we try to speak Italian so everyone can understand us. Above all, this means that there are quality players in France and that we do well abroad. We are observed and sought after, it is gratifying. For all newcomers, it is also an additional help for adaptation. In particular, we explain the different expectations that there are here. It's always good to have points of reference", said Kalulu.
Theo Hernandez, in France national team, wore the captain's armband at Milan and renewed his deal, do you wish to follow his footsteps?
"His extension makes sense, same as his call-up to the national team. He came to Milan, he evolved here and showed what he was capable of. This is the path we all want to take. Theo is an example. When I first arrived and sat on the bench due to playing less games, I watched him and he was very impressive."
Kalulu on the Scudetto hopes:
"Everything can turn very quickly. We could see it in the derby, where we were led before finally overturning everything. We could have been left behind. We want to do something this season. Last year, we had a good season, a very good one, even. But, we didn't win anything. There was necessarily a taste of unfinished business. Me, personally, I want to win something this season."
On a possible renewal with Milan:
"I feel good here, and I fit in perfectly with the club. I speak the language quite well and I am comfortable in my everyday life. In addition, the current results of the team necessarily give the desire to register in continuity here. I want to do good things with Milan and I want to stay there. There is no reason to want to leave."
Do you still watch Ligue 1:
"Obviously. There, now things are a little better for Lyon. We also talk about it with the people I know there. I hope they will get back on track without deviating. In general, I follow many championships. When I was younger, I started with Premier League matches on Saturday afternoons before finishing with Ligue 1 on Sunday evenings. I watch at least 4 matches per weekend", thus concluded Pierre Kalulu his interview with Eurosport.
