EMERSON ROYAL: FOCUS AND FUN FACTS

The strengthening of the Rossoneri's defence continues. After Pavlović, arrival, it's now Emerson Royal's turn. Sought after for some time, he has signed just before the official start of the season. A new right-back with offensive attributes, designed to enhance the flank's drive and expand Coach Fonseca's options on the wings. Technical, quick with the ball and in recovery, and capable of covering the pitch comfortably. At 5'11" he's a young, modern, and robust player. A valuable asset for the attacking play, aiming to adapt quickly to Serie A, refining discipline and defensive phase to become increasingly effective and well-rounded.

Emerson Royal was born in São Paulo on 14 January 1999. He began his career in the youth ranks of Ponte Preta (a club based in Campinas, São Paulo state) before moving up to the first team and making his debut in February 2017. After his initial appearances and first goal, he remained in Brazil in 2018 but transferred to Atlético Mineiro.

In January 2019, his career took a significant turn. Barcelona purchased him in an agreement with Real Betis, allowing him to stay in Seville with a buy-back clause. During his time with Betis, he enjoyed his best spell so far, making 79 appearances across La Liga, the Copa del Rey, and the Europa League, scoring five goals and providing ten assists. His rising form led to Barcelona exercising their buy-back option in 2021, but after just a few appearances, they sold him to Tottenham later that summer. With Spurs, he experienced the most substantial phase of his career, making 101 appearances and scoring four goals over three seasons. He also got a taste of the Champions League, including facing AC Milan in the Round of 16 during the 2022/23 season.

And then there's the national team. From the Under-20s to the senior squad, he made his debut in 2019, with his most recent call-ups coming at the end of 2023.

ROYAL, A JELLY
Emerson Royal, whose full name is Emerson Aparecido Leite de Souza Junior. In fact, "Royal" is a nickname given to him by an aunt when he was still a child. The reason? When he cried, he would open his mouth wide, resembling the mascot from the famous "Royal" jelly commercial.

BRAZIL ON THE SKIN
"From the favelas to the world" is the text of one of his tattoos (on his arm). It speaks to his ambition, but more importantly, it underscores the deep connection he feels to his roots. During the COVID-19 pandemic, he sent food supplies to the people of São Paulo.

SAN PAOLO ROSSONERI
The Milanese club's strong and successful Brazilian contingent is on the rise again. The Rossoneri haven't welcomed a Brazilian player since 2021 (Messias), or 2019 if we're only counting defenders (Duarte). Emerson is the 38th Brazilian in our history. He was born in São Paulo, just like notable former players Cafu and Altafini. Kaká, Pato, and Serginho - true AC Milan icons - played for São Paulo FC, a team with red and black colours, fittingly enough...

MUSIC BEYOND FOOTBALL
Emerson Royal has a deep love for music, particularly rap. He doesn't just follow and listen, he sings too. In fact, in recent years, he’s used his social media channels to share songs he's personally produced and performed, tackling sensitive issues like racism in his lyrics.