Emerson Royal believes that moving to AC Milan is the perfect choice for this stage of his career, and he revealed details on what convinced him to make the switch.
Milan officially announced the signing of the Brazilian yesterday on a permanent transfer from Tottenham Hotspur, with the former Barcelona man penning a deal until 2028 and becoming the third signing of the summer.
The 25-year-old right-back was pursued by Milan for much of the summer transfer window but the two clubs struggled to agree on the transfer fee, however they got there in the end and now he can begin a new adventure where he should see more game time.
Emerson did his first press conference as a new Milan player at Casa Milan this morning on the day of the game against Monza. He answered questions from the journalists present alongside Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and MilanNews relayed them.
Did you always think that the move to Milan would happen?
“Yes, I spoke a lot with the club and the representatives. It was obvious that Milan were the best option for me and I feel it in my blood. I am very enthusiastic, I want to do well, I’ve got my whole future ahead of me and Milan have always believed in me. Zlatan spoke about me, the club transmitted their passion to me, I feel almost like a leader because that’s my character.
“Even though I’m very young, I’ve been a leader in all the teams I’ve been in, it’s in my character. I talk a lot with my team-mates even during training. I would like to thank Zlatan and Milan for this opportunity and for the effort to bring me here. I want to do my best.”
Are you inspired by any defenders in Milan’s history? Have you spoken to Fonseca?
“I haven’t spoken to the coach personally yet. Milan had Thiago Silva, Cafu… I think all the Brazilians who have passed through here have written a beautiful story for the club. Milan are taking on an Emerson who is in very good shape: the time I spent in my former teams has taught me something. I come with a lot of motivation. You have a warrior you can count on.”
What is your relationship with Ibrahimovic like?
“Zlatan makes the difference at a global level, everyone knows that. I followed him on TV and he had an incredible career: he always showed this desire to win. It was a great satisfaction to know that there was someone like Ibra who was keeping an eye on me. I want to reward this effort and I want to do it on the pitch.”
Do you have an idea of how Fonseca can use you on a tactical level? Have you spoken to other Brazilians about Milan?
“I think the coach knows my characteristics: I have shown that I attack and defend with a lot of intensity and how he likes it. I come here to play football. Yes, I have spoken about Milan with other Brazilians and Milan is a topic that we talked about.”
How did you found these first hours as a Milan player? What impressions did you get? What more can you give to Milan?
“The first few days were intense, I did a lot of tests. Milan is a club that cares a lot about this part of the players. Entering the museum was historic, I was emotional, and I’m not easily moved.
“Seeing all the trophies that Milan has won… It’s truly a dream. Really all Brazilians want to come here: for me it’s an incredible honour. A truly great and important moment: I can’t wait to put on the shirt.”
Can you also play centre-back?
“I have always been able to help teams, in every way. Last season I played outside of my position: I played both full-back and central. I am here to help, if the coach wants I am willing to do everything. In my position I do the best things.”
