Theo Hernandez assures he is at Milan ‘for a long time’ after the ‘best year of my career,’ learning from leaders like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Paolo Maldini and coach Stefano Pioli.
The Derby della Madonnina is a week away, assuming of course that it goes ahead, considering COVID-19 cases are growing at both San Siro clubs.
It is a top of the table showdown, with the Rossoneri enjoying a 100 per cent record and Inter on seven points from three rounds, but Milan haven’t beaten their city rivals in Serie A since January 2016.
Theo Hernandez assures he is at Milan ‘for a long time’ after the ‘best year of my career,’ learning from leaders like Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Paolo Maldini and coach Stefano Pioli.
The Derby della Madonnina is a week away, assuming of course that it goes ahead, considering COVID-19 cases are growing at both San Siro clubs.
It is a top of the table showdown, with the Rossoneri enjoying a 100 per cent record and Inter on seven points from three rounds, but Milan haven’t beaten their city rivals in Serie A since January 2016.
“We feel much more relaxed going into this game and want to just continue what we’ve done so far,” Theo told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“We can win. We’ve got an excellent squad and a real team spirit, the fans are behind us, so we’ve got everything it takes. I had Achraf Hakimi as a teammate at Real Madrid, so I know what he’s capable of, but I’ll give my all to ensure he does not pass down my flank. I know how much this matters.”
Ibrahimovic was one of those who tested positive for Coronavirus, but announced on Friday that he had fully recovered and was ready to play.
“He is fundamental, as everything changed after he arrived. He helps us, talks, supports, all one by one. A real leader and we are so happy that he is back with us.”
Theo Hernandez famously said he accepted the move from Real Madrid to Milan after talking to Paolo Maldini, so how does he feel a year into his Serie A experience?
“It was a great first season and in football terms, it was the best year of my life. A dream come true. Football is more tactical and physical here than in Spain, but I adapted well.
“I honestly didn’t expect to improve so quickly after two difficult years, but I know my quality and what I can do. I want to become the best full-back in the world and after this year, I realise that I can achieve that.
“I owe it to Maldini, who wanted me here, to my teammates for helping and the coach for guiding me. Maldini gives me advice on how I can improve, he was a real legend. I am well aware I need to do better when defending and also in terms of concentration, which Stefano Pioli reminds me of all the time.”
The coach took over a year ago from sacked Marco Giampaolo, but only really started to mould this Milan side after the lockdown in March.
“He’s been so clear since he arrived, which was during a very difficult time. When the news emerged he could be leaving, I didn’t understand why, as he was doing so well. Fortunately, he stayed, as he is an incredible coach.
“We feel much stronger, now playing for Milan is wonderful and enjoyable. I think we can get into the Champions League this time. If we do, I pledge to dye my hair red and black with a Milan symbol.”
The 23-year-old joined from Real Madrid for €20m, but his value on the transfer market has more than doubled.
“I want to stay here for a long time. I am happy, it feels like home, and I knew from the start Milan were my priority. I also feel settled because I met an Italian girl, Zoe.”