Ruben Loftus-Cheek is delighted with his move to AC Milan.
The former Chelsea midfielder had his presentation this morning after completing an €18m move yesterday.
He began: “It’s a special feeling, a new chapter begins for me after being at Chelsea for twenty years. It’s a special moment for me, leaving the club and starting a new chapter. Milan is something incredible, having the opportunity to play at San Siro, a club with this history, with the legends who have played there, is an honor for me to wear this shirt.”
About Milan.
“I’ve been following Milan especially since Tomori has been around. I think Fik is a fantastic example for how he has faced this new challenge away from England and for the success he has had. The fact that he managed to win the Scudetto with Milan and having achieved important milestones with the club has given me a big push to come here.”
Friendship with Tomori.
“I played with him in the youth team, it will be nice to wear the same shirt at San Siro. I’ve talked to him a lot in the last month, a couple of months actually, especially when the news came out in the newspapers. He asked me if I would come. At first I couldn’t tell him much, but when the negotiation got serious I started asking him about the club and other things, like where he lives, where the other players live, where is the training ground. that if I had come to Milan I would have understood how big this club is, its history and what it means to play for Milan.”
On arriving at Milan.
“I’ve always wanted to come, when I faced Milan in the Champions League I felt what it’s like to play at San Siro, despite being an opponent. There was a great atmosphere at the stadium, it’s incredible.”
On the Milan of the past.
“I loved watching Kakà, he was exceptional with the ball at his foot. Playing with the ball at my feet is one of my strengths and Kakà was among the best with this quality, so he was one of my favourites.”
On Rafael Leao.
“He’s playing at a level that takes him to be among the best in the world, he can only improve further and has the right attitude to do so. He wrote to me a couple of weeks ago, now it will be nice to meet him and play with him.”
About his role.
“I’m used to playing in many positions. I think the role where I can be most effective is in midfield, playing box-to-boc so I can get into the box and score, but also come back and defend with my physicality.”
What is the difference between Serie A and the Premier League?
“The Premier League is very intense and physical. From what I’ve seen, Serie A is very tactical, but I’ll have to see and rehearse the matches as they really do. In the past I’ve had Italian coaches, they were very focused on tactics.”
On free time.
“I’m a fairly relaxed, quiet and passionate person. Outside of football I like to relax with friends. I play tennis in my spare time, it’s one of my hobbies. I like to stay active, but most of all I love playing football.”
A message to the fans.
“Hi guys. I’m honoured to be at Milan, I can’t wait to wear this shirt and play the first game in front of you. Thanks for the support you’ve already given me, I can’t wait to see you all.”
