Today marked the official introduction of Alvaro Morata as AC Milan’s new striker, acquired from Atletico Madrid for €13 million. During the press conference at Casa Milan, Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the club’s senior advisor, warmly welcomed Morata and shared insights into the decision to bring him to the team.
Why Milan Chose Morata: Ibrahimovic emphasized Morata’s qualities both on and off the field. “First of all, I want to welcome the captain of the European Champions. We were looking for a complete striker, present on and off the pitch. Morata is a perfect example for us: the team is younger than last year. Alvaro will also have a role off the field, and we’ll help him take on this responsibility. When someone is new, they don’t know the team and club, but I’m not worried. At the Euros, he was a captain and a leader; he’s a winner and a champion not only in the national team but also in clubs. He’s won not just a little, but a lot. On the field, everyone knows Alvaro, and with the new coach and a more offensive game, he will thrive. I told Alvaro that in this team, the best position is for the striker. I just told him to stay focused. We’re very happy. Yesterday he was an animal, and today he’s the beauty. It will go well. In the first press conference, I said God created the world in seven days: this is day four. We are very excited.”
Morata’s Fit with Milan: Ibrahimovic continued, “Alvaro is himself. I’m sure he will do well like the names of the past. When we saw the opportunity, we attacked immediately. To convince him, I said I would bring him happiness: I know that if you’re well off the field, you’re well on the field. I don’t want to have a team that’s too good. Alvaro will fit into this group easily; I know everyone is waiting for him: they know who he is and are eager to meet and train with him. He’s not a player who needs to grow; Alvaro is already at the top and complete. With more experience, it will be easier for him to play, but we are 200% sure he will fit into the team very well. Last year the management laid the foundation, and this summer we’re talking about the details: Alvaro was one of these. We want to create a competitive team: Alvaro has the DNA of Milan and is a winner. I also want to thank Alvaro’s agents.”
Milan’s Progress: On the team’s development, Ibrahimovic noted, “The team is responding well to the work being done. A new coach, a new staff… But they are working well, and obviously, with each passing day, Fonseca’s identity is coming in, even though he hasn’t had all the players from day one. The Berlusconi Trophy will be another opportunity to form the team. I’ve already seen Alvaro in shape. Slowly, the team will be complete. After three matches in America with a mix of young players and returning players, I’ve seen Milan doing well. But the results don’t mean anything. With patience, I’m sure everything will go well. It all starts on the 17th.”
Expectations from the Market: Ibrahimovic concluded, “We’ll see, we’re working. We’re following the strategy set from the beginning. If I tell you everything, it’s not a surprise. With the ambition we have, we aim high and want to get there. We’re working hard, but we’re all excited.”
