Gabbia discusses ‘eagerness to follow’ Amorim, Modric staying and injury: “Shorten that time”
Matteo Gabbia’s first real minutes of the campaign will come two months after it kicked off, which feels shocking considering his importance to AC Milan.
Since returning from Villarreal, neither Gabbia nor Milan have looked back. The Italian has regularly been at the heart of the defence and this season, it seemed it would be the same scenario.
However, doubts about his technical ability showed that he may not be central this season. Unfortunately, an injury halted any chance for him to show anything other than that. So, his minutes this season have been more than limited.
He returns at the right moment, though, ready to tackle an extremely tough October. With Gabbia-like performances, he could even shake up the mercato, considering the desire to sign another defender.
Gabbia speaks
Speaking to DAZN this afternoon, Gabbia discussed his injury (and returning from it), working with Ruben Amorim and several other topics, as MilanNews relays.
How’s work going with Ruben Amorim?
“The work is going well. We’re happy with what we’re doing, but we also know we need to improve in every aspect. The season has just begun, and when you change coaches, you always need some time.
“We’re trying to shorten that time; with hard work and dedication, the things we’re working on will show.”
How are you working on the defensive side of things?
“The coach is trying to find the right defensive balance for the team. We’ve changed a few things compared to what we’re used to. We’re also trying to eliminate some of the weaknesses we’ve had at the start of the season.
“We’re eager to follow the coach’s lead, train hard, and improve defensively as well.”
Your start to the season was hampered by an injury…
“It was a difficult month and a half because I wasn’t feeling well and couldn’t play consistently due to this ankle problem. Now I’m happy to have resolved this injury. The break came at the right time because it allowed me to train and completely eliminate the ankle problem.
“As soon as matches resume, I expect to be 100% fit.”
What impact has Mario Gila had?
“We already knew him since he played in Serie A. He’s a player with great characteristics and an exceptional guy with a great desire to succeed. I already knew him as a footballer, so if I had to say what surprised me, I’d say he surprised me as a person because I didn’t know him.
“He’s a good guy who always tries to instill positivity within the group. We need people like that, as well as players as good on the pitch as he is.”
Do you feel like a role model?
“I always feel responsible for being a role model. More than explaining it in words, what matters is how you behave and how you handle certain situations. I always try to be an exemplary professional and always try to do my best.
“Although I have to say it’s not necessary because all the guys know where they stand and what this jersey and this club mean. We all want to have a great season and achieve some success.”
Who are the rivals for the Champions League?
“There are many well-equipped teams. But we have to be humble, think only of ourselves, and remember how recent seasons have gone, especially last year, when we played so many good games. But then we need clarity, consistency, and professionalism until the end.
“We have to work hard and be eager to do our best every day. Then, game after game, we’ll see where we stand. Milan’s goal is to win every game, not every Sunday and Thursday.”
