Samuele Ricci arrives at AC Milan not just as a new midfielder, but as a symbol. He is the first official signing for the Rossoneri this summer and embodies many qualities the club seeks in its rebuilding phase: youth, seriousness, versatility across the midfield, and Italian roots. For the former Torino captain, who has broken into the Italian national team setup, this move is a significant step. He admitted feeling exceptionally nervous upon his arrival in Milan, a candid confession that quickly gave way to visible comfort during his first official press conference at Casa Milan.
From Torino Captain to Rossoneri Recruit
Sporting Director Igli Tare introduced Ricci, praising him as a “modern midfielder with great personality.” Tare highlighted Ricci`s captaincy at Torino as proof of his quality both on and off the pitch, stating that Ricci has “shown he deserves this shirt.” Tare positioned the signing as “an investment for the present and future,” with the hope that Ricci will become a key player for Milan. Ricci, initially slightly shy, displayed thoughtful responses, reflecting a blend of confidence and humility. He described this moment as the “best of my career,” acknowledging the valuable experience gained at Torino but emphasizing the magnitude of joining Milan. “For me, Milan is a starting point,” he stated, recognizing the club`s immense history, global prestige, and palpable ambition – qualities he feels align with his own drive. He is clearly motivated to “repay the trust” placed in him.
First Impressions of Coach Allegri and Team Dynamics
Ricci shared a “super positive” first impression of coach Massimiliano Allegri, describing him as a “great coach” and one of the “most successful.” Ricci noted Allegri`s “very sunny” personality and quick wit, adding, “on this too we get along very well.” While his specific role wasn`t extensively discussed with the coach, Ricci`s preference is the deep-lying midfield position in a three-man setup. However, he emphasized his willingness to adapt, even half-jokingly suggesting he`d play fullback if needed – a typical pragmatic footballing mindset, perhaps with a Tuscan twist mirroring Allegri`s own disposition.
The midfielder also spoke about the team environment. Conversations with teammate Matteo Gabbia prior to joining gave him insight into the Milan dressing room, which was described as a “big family where everyone rows in the same direction.” This sense of unity, he felt, helps players “be at our best and work at our best.” The reality of joining Milan felt almost unbelievable at first, but Ricci affirmed he “didn`t hesitate for a second” once the opportunity arose. He admitted initial curiosity about Rafael Leao, seeing him as an opponent with “something extra,” but found him in person to be “very calm and a good guy,” differing from external perceptions. The move to a club like Milan is also seen as crucial for his continued development and standing within the national team.
Learning from Legends and Embracing the Challenge
Ricci joins a midfield undergoing changes, stepping in after the departure of Tijjani Reijnders and potentially playing alongside the legendary Luka Modric. He addressed the comparison to Reijnders, noting their “very different characteristics.” While Reijnders might have contributed more goals last season, Ricci believes he can offer different, valuable qualities to the squad. The prospect of playing with a player who has won six Champions League titles, like Modric, feels “impossible” compared to where he was just a few years ago. His plan is clear: “With Modric, I will have to be a sponge, absorbing as much as possible.”
Technically, Ricci prefers a possession-based game with high ball involvement but highlighted significant improvement in the non-possession phase. He sees Allegri as a “master” who will greatly aid his tactical growth. Taking the number 4 shirt is seen as a “challenging” choice, historically worn by many champions, but one he feels “reflects me.” Looking ahead, the primary objective is a return to European competition, though Ricci stressed a step-by-step approach to achieving their goals.
Finally, Ricci offered a heartfelt tribute to his former club: “Right from the start, I felt the love from all the fans [at Torino], a love that accompanied me throughout my years in Granata. It`s a club with a very important history, if I am here it`s thanks to Torino.” This blend of gratitude for his past and clear ambition for his future sets the stage for Samuele Ricci`s Milan chapter.