Samu Castillejo insists he wants to remain at Milan ‘for a long time’ and is finally finding his place with Stefano Pioli, partly thanks to Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The winger spoke to Spanish newspaper AS about the reports of a potential return to his homeland.
“I always wanted to succeed here and I want to remain at this club for a long time,” said Castillejo.
Samu Castillejo insists he wants to remain at Milan ‘for a long time’ and is finally finding his place with Stefano Pioli, partly thanks to Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
The winger spoke to Spanish newspaper AS about the reports of a potential return to his homeland.
“I always wanted to succeed here and I want to remain at this club for a long time,” said Castillejo.
“The truth is that 2020 started well. I played every game and performed at a good level. I hope to continue like this. Those who know me realise I am tough, but also humble, and my first year was one of adaptation. It’s not easy to prove yourself with only 15 minutes per game and one start every two or three weeks.
“If someone has faith in you and makes you feel important, you can give your best in return.”
The other big change from 2020 was the arrival of Ibrahimovic, which also prompted Stefano Pioli’s move to 4-4-2.
“It was wonderful to have him here, he’s very humble and gets along well with everyone. He gives advice during training sessions and he came here to help us. We learn so much from Ibrahimovic.”
However, while Ibrahimovic arrived, veteran goalkeeper Pepe Reina moved to Aston Villa on loan.
“Reina has always been like a big brother to me, you laugh 24 hours a day with him. Any team in the world needs someone like him. He’s an exceptional goalkeeper too.”
Castillejo was asked about his favourite moment in the Milan jersey and he chose the very first.
“My debut, as I’ll never forget the feeling I had in those first few minutes playing at San Siro. That stadium shows you what football is, you can feel the history. I’d want any player to experience that. I’m fortunate enough to be here and I hope to continue relishing every moment.”