Dest: “I want to do everything possible to convince Milan”
Sergiño Dest, on loan to Milan from Barcelona, wants Stefano Pioli’s men to end up exercising the €20 million purchase option.
The transfer of Sergiño Dest to AC Milan was not finalised until the last day of the transfer window, despite the fact that several clubs such as Chelsea, Manchester United and Villarreal had considered signing the 21-year-old. In the end, it was Stefano Pioli’s team, reigning Serie A champions, who ended up opting for the former Ajax defender.
Dest has only played two games for Milan so far this season, both as a substitute and in the Champions League, but the player, who still belongs to Barça, has made his future intentions very clear.
The Rossoneri have an option to buy the American for €20 million, and whether they exercise the buy option or not will depend on his performances across the season.
Versatile defender
“I’m a versatile defender, a right-back, but I can also play left-back. Full-back is my preferred position, but I also have more attacking characteristics in case I have to play a bit further forward. What I have to do is give 100 per cent so that Milan decide to keep me”.
Importance of defenders in Italy
“I think I can become a more complete player here. Italy is famous for its excellent defenders, I will have to concentrate on improving my defensive skills. Changing teams and leagues is a great opportunity to grow”.
The atmosphere in the dressing room
“I arrived very recently, there is a new team and a new squad. I get on well with everyone and everyone has helped me. The good thing is to be part of a group, without being tied to anyone in particular”.
Milan
“I’m integrating well. Everything has been very quick and we play every three days, so I haven’t had time to see and visit the city. Everyone on the team is very welcoming, it’s not easy to remember all the names, but the coach helps me”.
Milan’s style of play
“Between Barcelona and Ajax, the game is similar, with a lot of ball possession”.
Rafael Leão
“He is a great player, he does great things. But the important thing is not the individual, but the team, and that is what leads to victories”.