Ante Rebic has scored five times in six Serie A games since the winter break, after "finally" getting "the opportunity to play regularly” at Milan.
In December it looked like Rebic’s stay in the fashion capital could be over after only six months, but he has “exploited” the new-found confidence from coach Stefano Pioli and has helped kick-start the Rossoneri’s season.
Ante Rebic has scored five times in six Serie A games since the winter break, after "finally" getting "the opportunity to play regularly” at Milan.
In December it looked like Rebic’s stay in the fashion capital could be over after only six months, but he has “exploited” the new-found confidence from coach Stefano Pioli and has helped kick-start the Rossoneri’s season.
“I finally have the opportunity to play regularly and show off my skills,” he told Dalmatinski Portal. “Everything is fine now, luckily. It was never more difficult for me to play in Italy compared to Germany.
“I simply didn’t get the right opportunity. When I am granted one, in most cases, I exploit it.”
Rebic’s great form after the winter break has also been boosted by the fact that Zlatan Ibrahimovic returned to San Siro this year and the Croatia international also exploits the experience of the 38-year-old.
“Just a few days ago, my sister sent me a newspaper clipping from 2012, where it said he was my favourite player,” he added. “It’s a real pleasure to play with him, to see his quality and experience. He helps us a lot.”
And Rebic also feels the presence of compatriot Zvonimir Boban, and reveals that the sporting director comes to visit the players as often as possible.
“After every game, he comes to the locker room to encourage us, sometimes even during the training sessions.”
And the encouragement has helped Milan bounce back from a slow start to the season, as Pioli’s men are now challenging for a place in Europe next term.
Milan are currently tied in a three-way battle for the sixth place – with Parma and Hellas Verona – and are preparing to face Fiorentina at the Artemio Franchi on Saturday.