New Milan striker Noah Okafor explained why he chose the club and reflected on his first few weeks in Stefano Pioli’s squad.
The 23-year-old Swiss forward is one of eight players to join the Rossoneri this summer, being part of the new project under Gerry Cardinale and RedBird.
Okafor joined Milan from RB Salzburg in a deal worth around €15m total, penning a five-year contract understood to be worth around €2m net per season.
Speaking at a press conference, Okafor first discussed his first day at the training ground in Milanello.
“First of all, I would like to greet you. I had a truly wonderful feeling. I signed the contract with Milan, yesterday for the first time at Milanello and first training session with the team.”
He touched on his first meeting with fellow new signing Samuel Chukwueze.
“I was with the team in Los Angeles, they gave me a great welcome. Yesterday I met Chukwueze for the first time, I already knew him because he’s Nigerian, I had spoken to him other times on other occasions and I’m very happy to have him as a teammate.”
The Swiss striker commented on his role under Pioli.
“I had a metatarsal injury. I’m very happy to be training with the team, I’m at a good level and I’ve recovered. I spoke to Pioli about the position to play in, in a trident for example, but we’ll see in the coming weeks… Still, it feels great.”
He spoke about which teammates have impressed him most.
“Everyone, especially Giroud. I talked to them a lot. Leao also helped me. I found excellent qualities in these two players. I think we are an excellent team, complete, I can’t wait to get started.”
Okafor was asked if he thought about joining Milan after facing them in the Champions League group stage last season.
“Things move very fast in football. I played against Milan twice and after these games I kept in touch with the club. Now I’m very happy to be here, wonderful club.”
He was also asked if the Rossoneri could win the Scudetto next season.
“Milan are very strong, both in training and in the match. I think, I expect, a great season.”
The Swiss striker spoke about his relationship with Rafael Leao.
“We kept in touch last year. When I see him play, I see him smile. We talk a lot. I’ll try to play particularly well in one-on-one situations.”
He reflected on his match against Italy with Switzerland.
“It was a great game in Rome. Now I’m here with you in Italy though, and I’m very happy to be here.”
Okafor was asked if he was faster than Leao or Chukwueze.
“I don’t know, we’re all very fast. We’ll see. The most important thing is to have harmony in the team, especially in attack. We’ll try to play to the best of our ability.”
He explained why he chose to join Milan.
“When the various options were presented to me, I considered Milan for their history, I was impressed.
“From day one, I chose to bet on Milan among the various alternatives. I had contact with Pioli, he liked me and this is a very important thing.”
The 23-year-old looked back at his career so far.
“I don’t like losing, I won four titles. Salzburg were an excellent team. I like the philosophy of the club and the history at Milan. I have to work every day to achieve the team goals.”
Finally, Okafor sent a brief message to the Milan fans.
“I can’t wait to meet you at San Siro and celebrate the first goal together. Forza Milan.”
Welcome brother. Forza Milan 🔴⚫