Giorgio Scalvini revealed what he wants to learn from Thiago Silva and gave his thoughts on Milan’s attacking duo Rafael Leao and Olivier Giroud.
The 19-year-old has emerged as one of the most exciting young defenders in Italy, breaking through under Gian Piero Gasperini at Atalanta. He’s already a Serie A regular, making 63 appearances in the topflight.
Scalvini’s impressive development has attracted the attention of a number of clubs across Italy and Europe, including Inter, Juventus, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City and Bayern Munich. He was recently named the Best Italian at the 2023 Golden Boy awards.
Speaking to Radio Serie A via TMW, Scalvini first discussed his defensive inspirations.
“I have always been inspired by Thiago Silva. I remember when he played here in Italy at Milan, I was still little, but I already watched a lot of football. In fact, I remember him, I liked him a lot as a defender, I liked his presence on the pitch.
“Maybe in those moments where we don’t look similar, I have to try to steal something from him like his leadership, his presence and his personality.”
He gave his thoughts on Milan forward Leao and Giroud.
“I only played 10-15 minutes in two years against Rafael Leao but seeing him up close, the thing that strikes you is that burst he has in the first few meters when he runs with the ball.
“Olivier Giroud is a very important player for Milan, because he gives a very central reference point in attack. We will have to defend very well as a unit, if we can help each other, we can contain them well.”
Finally, Scalvini remembered his debut with Atalanta and how it felt to step out onto the pitch.
“When they added my name on my shoes, I didn’t even notice, I took the free locker, the one without a name.
“When I made my debut, the coach called Piccoli. Then me too, it was a sudden thing, which you can’t imagine. Returning to the car and talking to my brother, I felt indescribable emotions.
“I realized the dream I had as a child, thanks to a passion that my father and brother passed on to me. Now it has become a job and I live it very seriously, but inside I’m very happy to be able to work with these players and this staff.”
Scalvini has already made seven appearances for the Italy national team and is widely expected to be part of the squad for the European Championship next summer, although it may be a little early for him to see regular play.