PLAYER PROFILE: FILIPPO SCOTTI

After getting a taste for it, he's now savouring and enjoying playing for the Primavera. He first got involved with the U19s last year after being promoted from the U17s, where he was a key figure in the run to the Scudetto semi-finals (eight goals and two assists). Now, he's established himself in Abate's side. We're talking about Filippo Scotti from Vizzolo Predabissi. Discipline, self-sacrifice, resistance, spirit.

He's one of those players who perhaps doesn't have a bicycle kick, a fancy back-heel or a stepover in his locker, but he's someone who every coach would have in their ideal starting line-up. Abate included, which is why he's been ever-present this campaign. And Filippo is repaying that faith through his fantastic performances. So far, he's scored four goals and provided six assists in all competitions and featured in every single match, from Monza through to last Saturday's game against Atalanta. His hard work is exemplary, as are his fitness levels.

Scotti is 17, which is the number he wears on his back. In October, he signed his first professional contract, which will run until 2026. It represented an important investment by the Club, who welcomed him into the Rossoneri fold in 2006, and was deserved recognition for his progress. While he's made 18 appearances and scored twice (against Juventus and Lecce) in the Primavera 1 division this season, it's in the UYL where he's really shone: he provided two assists against Newcastle (4-0) and bagged a brace against Borussia Dortmund (4-1) during the group stage.

An attacking winger who can also play at full-back when required, Scotti loves to get down the right flank. In an exclusive interview at Milanello, he spoke about his performances, those of the team, objectives, as well as the Rossoneri's upcoming matches: "It was an undeserved defeat in Bergamo, and we're ready to take on Roma without any fear. The group is strong and compact. I'm pleased with how I'm doing, but I'm always looking to improve. I'm available to the team and have a great relationship with the Coach." Abate's side, who haven't won since the start of January, need to quickly put their defeat to Atalanta behind them as they get ready for their home clash against Roma at the PUMA House of Football on Sunday 27 January (11:00 CET kick-off). With the Rossoneri looking up at second place and beyond, it's a real six-pointer in the play-off battle.

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