Florian Thauvin, Udines’s captain and forward, spoke to Sportweek about AC Milan’s interest:
“After eight years at Marseille, I was mentally exhausted. I needed a break, to do something different. OM had offered me another five-year contract, and then Lyon called me. I spoke with Giuntoli, who was at Napoli, with Maldini, who wanted me at Milan, the team that would be, and still is, my dream. Atletico Madrid also wanted me. But after COVID, all the clubs were in a difficult financial situation, while I received a really significant offer from Mexico. I also felt the need to be closer to my family; my son Alessio was just one year old.”
“The biggest mistake of my life: I am a top-level athlete, my daily rhythm is dictated by football, and the level of Mexican football did not allow me to maintain certain standards. That’s why I immediately said yes to Udinese. At first, it was difficult because I didn’t feel the coach’s trust, but I worked hard to show that I am a strong player and that there is a future for me in football.”
He added:
“My contract with Udinese expires in June. I’m really happy here, but I have always said that a top-level player aspires to play at the highest level. I don’t know how it will go, but I definitely feel like a player for a top club. The captain’s armband is a new experience for me. I like the relationship with my teammates. Before every game, I talk to the team, but I prefer ‘one-on-one’ conversations.”
On having back problems at the age of 15:
“It was as if something had detached here (he touches behind his shoulder). The doctor told me that I would never be able to play again.” Said Thauvin. “I cried a lot. Then I decided not to give up. I saw one doctor, then another, and another, until I found one who told me that I could continue, as long as I wore a brace for six months and did certain exercises. My teammates laughed at me for that brace because when you’re young, you’re not very smart, but I came out of it stronger.”
