While he may not have been a crucial player for AC Milan this season, Alessandro Florenzi has stepped up when required, even straying from his usual position several times. In a recent interview, he offered his thoughts on the aims for the ending of the season, amongst other topics.
With the cards that Stefano Pioli has been given, players have needed to step up, and one who has done so often this season is Florenzi.
With the injuries in central defence, Theo Hernandez faced a spell shifted into centre back, and as a result, Florenzi took to the left flank. While he may not have stolen the spotlight, he played a vital part, and that is what you can expect from the veteran full-back.
At 32 years old, he might not be a prominent figure on the pitch, but with his experience, it is imagined that he is a great mentor in the locker room, which will be massively appreciated. However, his time at the club may be cut short, with conversations occurring about his wage.
Florenzi spoke to Sportsmediaset, and his comments have been relayed by MilanNews.
The incident in Udine…
“Leaving the field we took a big responsibility but we were close to Mike: if he hadn’t told us he was ready to come back, we wouldn’t have done it. After the game, we talked about it amongst ourselves and as a team, we congratulated each other on how we handled it. It’s no longer enough to say ‘stop racism’, we need concrete gestures that can also go against the so-called ‘law of the field’.”
On the Scudetto and the Europa League…
“First of all, congratulations must be given to Juventus and Inter for this almost clear path. We’re on our way and around March-April we’ll see where we stand. Did I, like Pioli, like hide-and-seek? Yes, although I liked playing football more… Europa League? Milan have never won it, have they? Why shouldn’t it be a target then, it’s there.”
The impact provided by the new players…
“They have fit into the group exceptionally well, they just needed to find their best condition. Jovic had not even done the preparation, Okafor had a few physical stops and goes, but they are strong'”
His thoughts on Rafael Leao’s situation…
“From him [Leao], who is a champion, one always expects a lot, but he makes the team run offensively. Two of the three goals we scored in Udine came from him.”
Who was a leader in the changing rooms when Zlatan Ibrahimovic left?
“We have many, all different, including me. Maybe that’s the secret, having so many with different characteristics.”
Thoughts on Daniele De Rossi’s appointment at AS Roma…
“I’m happy for a friend, when I read there was this possibility I was almost more excited than he was.”
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