German defender Malick Thiaw has become an important part of AC Milan's head coach Stefano Pioli's system and lineup. The player is represented by Gordon Stipic (also agent of Hakan Calhanoglu) who granted an interview to Tuttomercatoweb.com. Here are his words:
Many fans are wondering, how is it possible that someone like him wasn't playing?
"He became a starter during a difficult time, but everything was planned. He arrived prepared and left excellent impressions with his qualities and performances. It's true that many are now asking 'could he have played earlier'? But the plan was crystal clear from the beginning. It was all agreed with the coach and club management, who explained from the start what the player's path would be."
Why did Malick Thiaw choose Milan?
"Malick had many options, especially from the Premier League. Many managers even offered him a guaranteed starting position. However, as you can see, he was impressed by the talks with Maldini and Massara. This shows his character and attitude: he chose the more difficult path. He could have chosen the easier path, including a ready-made starting position, but the way the project was presented left no room for doubt. Discipline and mental strength are his strengths."
Now that he's playing, it's easy to answer, but was he always convinced of his choice?
"We were convinced 110% even when he wasn't playing. The feedback received from Milan, day after day, was positive: it was the right path for him."
Only positive feedback on Malick Thiaw comes from the Rossoneri...
"He is a calm guy who is liked by everyone. He is a hard worker, knows how to be part of the group, behaves well, has an extraordinary family who always supports him in the right way. And he knows where he comes from and that the path is still long. The focus is clear: no extravagant plans, no absurd dreams. One thing is certain: he plays in Serie A, for Milan, in a great reality."
