Matteo Gabbia got to play his first minutes this season as Paulo Fonseca gave him the chance from start against Venezia. The centre-back responded very well and although he didn’t get a goal in the end, he was very happy after the game.
Given the defensive struggles at the start of this season, and Gabbia’s performances last season, many fans were urging Fonseca to start the academy product and so he did. It almost resulted in a goal as well, though it was officially given to Youssouf Fofana instead.
After the 4-0 win against Venezia, Gabbia spoke to DAZN, Milan TV and Sky (via MilanNews) and shared his thoughts on what could be a turning point for Milan. He also previewed the upcoming clash against Liverpool, which is very important for the Rossoneri.
On the goal…
“It’s hard to see even on the replays, but I heard they gave it to Fofana. I definitely touched something but I don’t know, the important thing is that the ball ended up in the back of the ent and that we sent a signal straight away. I’m sorry for Fofana as hearing and enjoying the goal roar for the first time is something beautiful.”
On the approach to the game, what happened in these weeks?
“I haven’t seen different things, because we have always worked in the right way. But it’s normal that the results influence the work and the judgment: the attitude is of maximum availability and concentration. We had the merit of starting well and we are very happy to have clinched the three points.”
What kind of teammate is Pavlovic?
“Pavlo is an exceptional guy: he is young but he already has a very strong mentality and that is what we need. I’m convinced that both Tomori and Thiaw are two very very important players: we are a department of centre-backs that must stimulate and support each other.”
On the many goals conceded…
“It’s reductive to talk solely about the four defenders, it’s a team effort. Our goal is to improve and we aren’t happy with how the first three games went. We have to work as a team to achieve the goal of a clean sheet and facilitate the three points.”
On the innovations brought by Fonseca…
“He has brought intensity in terms of training, in terms of playing ideology. He has his ideas, it’s stimulating to do the best possible. I think the team gives 100% in training and I think we are close to playing the football that the coach wants.”
On the Theo and Leao case…
“Everything was very calm in the locker room, the coach handled the situation calmly. We know that nothing serious happened, certainly not as reported outside. Theo and Leao have always had the right attitude and tonight it showed.”
On the fans outside San Siro before the game…
“It gave us motivation. This week we felt we had to change gear. Tonight, all together, we put in the right attitude and got three points that should give us the right momentum this week.”
Now Liverpool…
“It’s the start of a journey in the Champions League, we are happy and fired up. We are facing a very, very strong team, we have to take to the field with the right attitude. On Tuesday night, we, with the stadium, will do our best to win.”
It remains to be seen if Fonseca will field Gabbia or Fikayo Tomori from start against Liverpool. Most likely, it will be the latter as he’s still considered to be a starter for this team, simply getting some rest last night.
