Strahinja Pavlovic gave his first interview as a Milan player, discussing his defensive inspirations and life in Paulo Fonseca’s squad.
The 23-year-old Serbian centre back joined the Rossoneri from RB Salzburg last month in a deal worth around €18m plus €2m in add-ons, putting pen to paper on a four-year contract with an option for a fifth worth circa €4.5m net per season plus add-ons.
Pavlovic is expected to partner Fikayo Tomori in Milan’s defence under Fonseca, leaving little space for Malick Thiaw. The German defender was heavily linked with a move to Newcastle United, who ultimately decided to switch focus to Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi.
Pavlovic interview
Speaking to Milan’s media department via TMW, Pavlovic first discussed his defensive inspirations at the Rossoneri.
“There were some great defenders like Maldini, Stam and Nesta. They were fantastic but unfortunately, I was too young to follow them. But for me these three were incredible.”
He was also asked to name his Serbian inspiration.
“For me Vidic, I think he was a very strong defender for his style of play. I watched him when I was younger and I always followed him. He was my inspiration.”
Pavlovic touched on his mindset in the dressing room.
“It’s very important to have a winning character and I pay a lot of attention to this aspect.”
He spoke about his reunion with Noah Okafor.
“I’m obviously very happy to be able to play with Noah again. We played together for two seasons and we have an excellent relationship.”
Pavlovic commented on his decision to choose the shirt number 31.
“He’s a legend and I’m happy to be able to wear the number 31. It was my number at Salzburg too, I love this number.”
He remembered the atmosphere at the Stadio Giuseppe Meazza.
“I’ll never forget the moment I entered the pitch for the warm-up. It was a very hot atmosphere. They were singing that famous song: ‘Sarà perché ti amo’, I thought. I loved it as an opponent too.”
Finally, Pavlovic discussed life under new coach Fonseca.
“We’ll see. I’m ready to fight and see what the coach expects from me. I’m ready to do whatever he asks of me.”
There is no way Milan are paying him 4.5m a year plus add-ons. Are you pulling these numbers out of your *** or something?