New Milan signing Marco Pellegrino opened up about his move from Platense, his first few days with Stefano Pioli and where he fits best on the pitch.
The 21-year-old Argentinian defender joined the Rossoneri in a deal worth around €3.5m, signing a five-year contract with the club. He impressed last season for Platense, scoring one goal across 17 league appearances.
Pellegrino is Milan’s ninth signing of the summer transfer window, following various reinforcements like Christian Pulisic, Samuel Chukwueze and Yunus Musah.
Speaking in a press conference via MilanNews, Pellegrino first discussed his move to Milan.
“When you start playing football many dreams go into your head. I was playing with Platense until a few days ago and it was already a dream, now I’m here and everything went very well, it was all very fast.”
He was asked how the first few days at the club have gone.
“I have only just arrived, but I have already done several training sessions. The group is helping me a lot, but Pioli is also a great person. He’s giving me a hand from a tactical and technical point of view.
“Obviously, we know the history of Milan, one of the strongest and most important teams in the world. It’s a great responsibility to be here, it’s wonderful.”
The 21-year-old revealed his two footballing idols.
“As I already said, Sergio Ramos, but also Paolo Maldini of Milan.”
Pellegrino discussed the welcome he received in Lombardy.
“I arrived at Milan and found something new. I saw the facilities, the team and it’s all incredible, the quality is very high.”
He spoke about his best position on the pitch.
“I am a central defender, but I have also played as a full-back in a three-man defence. Of course I recognise myself as a left-sided centre back.”
The 21-year-old commented on adapting to life with the Rossoneri.
“We’ll see… now I want to adapt to the team as best I can. I will make use of all the time here, then we will achieve the goals. For me it’s a big leap forward, I’m here to listen to advice, increase my minutes and be called up.”
Finally, Pellegrino discussed his new Milan teammates.
“I have already spoken to them, they have welcomed me well. I’m studying their position on a tactical level. I’ll talk to them to learn everything I can.”