Diawara sheds light on ‘surprise’ Milan call, qualities and aspirations: “Why not the Scudetto?”

Sankhoun Diawara has admitted he was ‘a little surprised’ when AC Milan’s call came, but he is eager to make his debut.

Diawara was the third signing of the summer after Goncalo Ramos and Mario Gila. Though he might have cost a fraction of what was paid out for those two, he is in the early stages of his career still and seems to have a very high ceiling.

He put pen to paper on a contract which runs until 2031 after a deal was agreed with Troyes. Diawara became the latest in a long line of talents that Milan have invested in for the future, and the suggestion is that he will be Strahinja Pavlovic’s deputy.

‘Always admired Nesta’

Diawara was present at the Via Dante club store alongside Alphadjo Cisse for a meet and greet event with fans. As part of it he spoke to MilanNews, answering questions on his first few weeks at the club.

How did you react when you heard Milan wanted you?

“When I heard the club wanted to sign me, I was satisfied, happy, and even a little surprised.”

Do you have any idols that were at Milan?

“Even though I was quite young, I always admired Alessandro Nesta, which is why I took his number. Another great defender was obviously Paolo Maldini.”

How would you describe yourself as a player?

“I feel comfortable with the ball at my feet, but I consider myself an aggressive defender and good in aerial duels.”

Did other teams want you?

“In this transfer window, other teams also wanted me, but I was so happy with Milan’s interest that it took me very little to decide and choose the Rossoneri. I can’t wait to discover San Siro, which is a legendary and incredible stadium, and I hope to get some playing time.”

What has it been like working with Amorim?

“I get along very well with Coach Amorim, and I hope to learn Italian soon. I like the coach’s perspective on football, which is also one of the reasons I chose AC Milan. I get along well with everyone, not just the French or those who speak my language.”

What are your aims?

“I hope to do well in Italy and adapt to the Italian league quickly. My goal is to win trophies with AC Milan, so why not even the Scudetto?”

This is a new city for you too…

“I haven’t had the chance to get to know Milan well yet, nor the language. I think Italian is similar to French, and as I said before, I want to learn to speak Italian as soon as possible.”