Ruben Amorim’s first AC Milan press conference addressed one of the biggest topics at the club.
Amorim landed in Milan yesterday and spoke to the associated media for the first time.
Taking up the role after his disastrous Manchester United spell, Amorim was keen to point out why this would be different.
He also discussed his new surroundings, and one player in particular.
Luka Modric played for Milan last season, but his contract expired on June 30th.
There has been talk about MLS or even retirement for the Croatian, who has refused to rule out either option.
Amorim’s update on Modric’s contract situation
However, Amorim has given an update that will delight supporters.
“He’s a player we want to keep, I’ve spoken to him twice,” he said.
“He played very well [in the World Cup], he’s a key player for us to have more possession.
“I’m not saying he’ll play every game, but we want to count on him.
“I’ve already spoken to him, I hope to have him back in the next few days.”
Amorim also spoke about more individuals, including countryman and record signing from PSG, Goncalo Ramos.
He said: “We did this work as a team; they find the best players for each position, it’s not the coach who chooses the name.
“We believe in him a lot; he proved it against Croatia, who played with a low defensive line. He can score on the counter-attack.
“I see a player who, if he plays five minutes, is the same as if he were a starter.
“It’s about the team. If we want to press high, we need someone who can do it. It’s a message that we want a player who believes in the team.
“I’m happy that it was a quick signing and that they believed in him. Rafa Leão? He’s our player, I’m very happy with our team.”
Amorim then spoke about Christian Pulisic, adding: “He’s a very talented player, he had an injury…
“He’s perfect for the way I think about football, especially with less space. I have an idea of where I want him to play, more often in the middle.
“I know his qualities, I believe in him, he will be supported at this club, I know he had problems with the World Cup elimination… We have a clear plan to use his qualities.”
Amorim’s Old Trafford reflection
Milan fans will be hoping for the Sporting version of Amorim, not the United one, and he’s explained why they can be hopeful.
“It’s difficult to explain the mistakes; I’d have to explain the context of the last adventure,” he said.
“I’m the coach of Milan, I speak about Milan. What I can say is that I learned a lot. I made mistakes.
“To say something to the fans, I felt proud to be the coach of Manchester United. Now it’s a different story, there are many things I can do better.
“I learned from the experience, I’ll try to change. I think I’ll be a better coach.”
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