LOFTUS‑CHEEK: "I CAN BECOME A LEADER HERE"

The day after the training camp that kicked off the 2023/24 season, the press conferences for the presentation of the new Rossoneri players began at Milanello. The first is Ruben Loftus-Cheek, an English midfielder ready to immerse himself 100% in the AC Milan world. These are his words, broadcast live on the AC Milan Official App, Milan TV, YouTube and Twitch:

WELCOME
"AC Milan's history is unique, I couldn't say no to an offer like that. For me it is a great opportunity to grow, not only on a sporting level. I will give my all. I am happy to be here, so far I have spent my whole career at Chelsea but I have never been fully satisfied. Few times I was at 100 per cent in London, it was the right moment to change. I understand the great responsibility of wearing this shirt. I am mature, I overcame injuries and difficult moments: now I am well and I can become a leader of the team".

STRAIGHT TO IT
"Last season, after facing AC Milan in the Champions League as an opponent, the first discussions began. The Rossoneri management had congratulated me, after that the negotiations became more and more concrete. On my return I was impressed by the atmosphere at the stadium, the support of the AC Milan fans was incredible. You could feel all their passion. At Chelsea I had my best moment with Sarri, I was used in my favourite position; then I had more defensive tasks".

AMBITIONS
"I know 8 is an important number, but it shows my ambition. I want to help the team, we want to keep improving this season. I want to play, contributing to the cause and also try to score as many goals as possible. I am a tall, physical player, I hope to make a difference especially offensively. A three-man midfield is probably ideal for me, we have already talked about it with Pioli; in any case I will adapt to the choices. Our goal is to win".

COMRADES OLD AND NEW
"When the situation started to evolve, I talked a lot with Fikayo. He told me wonderful things about the environment: the team, the city, the fans. Tomori assured me that I'll be at my best. I hope to learn Italian soon. I've also heard from Pulisic, I know he's on his way: he'll be a great addition".

EX ROSSONERI
"In the past I have revealed that I admire a player like Kaká. I don't want to compare myself to such a champion, also because I have different characteristics, but he is a source of inspiration. Like Pirlo, always talking about former Rossoneri who played in my position".

NATIONAL
"I am just thinking about doing well at AC Milan, I think about the national team but at the moment it is not my priority".

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