Strahinja Pavlovic has begun his new chapter as an AC Milan player, expressing enthusiasm about his name and what it represents. In his first interview with Milan TV, conducted during a game of foosball, the Serbian defender shared his thoughts on joining the prestigious club.
Pavlovic, who arrived from Red Bull Salzburg in a deal worth around 20 million euros, has already started training at Milanello while the team completes their US tour under new coach Paulo Fonseca.
The 23-year-old began by explaining the meaning of his name: “Strahinja means ‘fearless’. I like my name; it describes me well.”
When asked about Milan defenders who inspired him, Pavlovic said, “There were great defenders like Maldini, Stam, and Nesta. They were fantastic, but unfortunately, I was too young to follow them. However, for me, these three were incredible.”
Regarding Serbian defenders who influenced him, he singled out Nemanja Vidic: “For me, it’s Vidic. I think he was an extremely strong defender because of his style of play. I watched him when I was younger and always followed him. He was my inspiration.”
Pavlovic also expressed hope to meet Novak Djokovic, a famous Serbian athlete and Milan fan: “Unfortunately, I haven’t met him yet, but I hope he comes to San Siro soon because I know he’s a big Milan fan. He’s done great things and has a great personality. I like him a lot.”
On his locker room presence, Pavlovic stated, “It’s very important to have a winning character, and I pay a lot of attention to this aspect.”
The defender is looking forward to reuniting with former Salzburg teammate Noah Okafor: “I’m obviously very happy to be able to play with Noah again. We played together for two seasons and have an excellent relationship.”
Pavlovic chose the number 31 shirt, previously worn by Jaap Stam: “He’s a legend, and I’m happy to be able to wear number 31. It was my number at Salzburg too; I love this number.”
Describing his off-field personality, he said, “I’m quite normal. I’m like all the other guys: a normal guy who likes to play football and who plays with joy, passion, and emotion.”
Pavlovic emphasized the importance of his family: “My family is very important to me. My mother, father, and younger brother have always been by my side during these years, and I’m grateful to them for life.”
Recalling his experience playing at San Siro with Salzburg, he shared, “I’ll never forget the moment I entered the field for the warm-up. It was a very hot atmosphere. They were singing that famous song: ‘Sarà perché ti amo’, I think. I loved it even as an opponent.”
On adapting to Fonseca’s playing style, Pavlovic said, “We’ll see. I’m ready to fight and see what the coach expects from me. I’m ready to do whatever he asks of me.”
The defender also shared his journey in football: “I remember when I was little, around 3 or 4 years old, my father played football, and I always wanted to go watch him in action. I started training at 6 years old, and it was love at first sight. It’s been a long journey, and now I’m here. I’m really happy and proud.”
Pavlovic concluded with a message to Milan fans: “Rossoneri, see you at San Siro. Forza Milan!”
