Cisse discusses PSV rumours, start at Milan, debut goal and relationship with Amorim

Alphadjo Cisse has admitted that he was close to joining PSV Eindhoven at one point, but is glad he ended up at AC Milan.

It has been a whirlwind few weeks for Cisse, who joined Milan officially a few months ago but was left on loan at Catanzaro and then had to recover from a tendon injury that needed surgery. There had been talk of another loan spell, then he ended up in the starting line-up on Sunday against Torino.

The Italian could hardly have hoped for a better debut, as he scored the first goal of the Rossoneri’s season and his first for the club. After controlling a cross from substitute Adrien Rabiot, he swept a shot inside the far post with the composure of a veteran.

After getting a great reception from the fans outside the Via Dante store where he was doing a meet and greet with Sankhoun Diawara, Alphadjo Cisse recently spoke to MilanNews about the current moment he is experiencing.

Have you had a lot of messages? And why the number 70?

“Over the last few days I’ve tried to reply to all the messages I’ve received, but I’m already trying to take the next step and think about the next match. I chose it [70] because number 80 was taken…"

What is it like working with Amorim so far?

“My relationship with the coach is actually very positive. He’s had faith in me and all the other young players, and it’s easy for me to express myself to the fullest.”

Is it true you were close to PSV?

“In January, everything was almost done with PSV, then AC Milan came along and I immediately changed my mind. It was an easy choice to choose this club.”

There were rumours of a loan spell…

“There was the option of playing on loan, but the coach has always given me the chance to express myself on the pitch, and I was able to seize it. Staying here is a great feeling. Milan are one of the biggest clubs in the world.

The director of Catanzaro nicknamed you ‘phenomenon’…

“Director Ciro was crucial for me at Catanzaro. He’s a great person and a great man. What he gave me was a huge boost of support.”

Do you have national team ambitions?

“I’m not thinking about it because I’m focused on Milan and the matches. When and if the time comes, I’ll be available.”

Are you learning from some players in training?

“This is a time to steal and learn from the many players here. Every practice I try to learn something valuable from one of my teammates.”

Ambrosini says you remind him of how Robinho played…

“I can’t tell you, I haven’t seen him play much but if he says so, it’s fine (laughs).”

Are you afraid of competition?

“Not now, no fear. I think competition is good for everyone, and if Chris has to play in my place, there’ll be respect. My goal is to learn as much as possible from everyone.

“I’m not at my best yet, I’m coming off a long injury, and the match against Torino was only my fourth. I still have a lot of time to find my best form, but I’m working hard and I’m doing well.”