The official announcement, his first steps at Milanello and now a presentation press conference to boot: Divock Origi continues to settle into the Rossoneri world: today, the Belgian striker answered questions from journalists and fans. The event was streamed live on the official App, Milan TV, YouTube and Twitch.
ON CHOOSING AC MILAN
"I spoke with the club towards the end of the season, but I was just concentrating on finishing the season with Liverpool. Once that was done, I understood and shared the vision of the club, the people here made me realise the special journey this squad is on and the history being written, and I want to play my part in continuing it in the coming years".
GIROUD AND SCORING DECISIVE GOALS
"I followed the team and his journey through the season, you could sense there was something special going on. Olivier cored some important goals, like the one against Inter in the derby. For a striker, you always have to prepare for these moments, you always have to be ready. We have to give our best to help the team, and the beauty of football is that anything can happen in a game. I really want to score important goals, as I have done in the past".
ON THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE
"I absolutely felt the atmosphere in the game at San Siro. In this stadium, you are able to feel the sense of history and the culture of the club. This is also why it is an honour and a pleasure to be here, to have the opportunity to play in this magical stadium. When AC Milan got the first goal, you could hear the backing and push given by the fans, that feeling between the crowd and players is special".
ON PAST PLAYERS
"There are many players that have played their role in AC Milan's history that I admire, therefore, it's quite difficult to choose. For example, I'm thinking of Van Basten Shevchenko, Inzaghi, who have all been part of this wonderful club. I don't like to compare myself with others because we all have our own story to tell and path to take. I believe it's possible to take inspiration from any player, in any position, and even from outside the footballing world. My goal is to just continuously grow as a player".
PERSONAL OBJECTIVES
"I always want to be influential, to be consistent in every training session and in games, to score important goals that give fans special moments".
PHYSCIAL CONDITION
"Maybe from afar, there seems to have been an emphasis on my injuries, but most of my career has been spent on the pitch. It is important to take what you can from injuries in order to improve yourself and get to know your body better. I feel like I'm in the best shape of my career in this moment, I'm ready physically and mentally for this adventure".
ON THE IMPORTANCE OF MALDINI AND MASSARA
"Speaking with the management was the defining moment for me. Paolo was one of the most important footballers in the world, a leading example. They have been on an amazing journey and done great things, you can feel it in the atmosphere and the values they have given to the club and squad of players. To be chosen by them is a huge honour for me".
ON SCORING IN DERBY GAMES
"Every game has its own story and you have prepare yourself in the best way possible, there's no secret for scoring in a derby game. These games are special, the team has to prepare itself as best as possible and enjoy the challenge. I can't wait to play all the games, but especially the derbies".
THE DIFFERENCES WITH THE PREMIER LEAGUE
"Serie A and the Premier League are two completely different leagues. I have been fortunate to be able to play in different national championships - Germany, France, England - and also in international football. The Italian league is very tactical; maybe in England, it's more physical. I think I'm going to learn a lot tactically in Italy but at the same time contribute in the way I can from my experiences".
ON THE HEAD COACH AND TEAMMATES
"I was pleased with the welcome I received from everyone, you can see how much of a united group it is. I spoke with the Mister and we are both enthusiastic and eager to get this new journey underway; we have a strong drive. He has done an amazing job with everyone, instilling a passion and showing the best version of yourself".
KLOPP AND LIVERPOOL
"I am extremely grateful and appreciative of my time at Liverpool, it's a club that has provided me with everything. Me and Klopp have shared an incredible experience together, we've won lots and I'm very proud to have had him as my coach. With Coach Pioli, I hope it'll be the same and I can't wait to start working with him. My time at Liverpool was very emotional, especially the goodbyes, but now it's time to start a new journey, giving this Club the best version of me.
The AC Milan 2022/23 season tickets are now available: #UnaStoriaUnica, see you at San Siro!