Matteo Gabbia, AC Milan’s match-winner in the recent derby against Inter, shared his thoughts during a fan meet at the Milan Flagship Store in central Milan. The young defender reflected on his game-changing goal and his aspirations for the future.
Gabbia described the day after the derby as one of the happiest of his life, overwhelmed by the affection from fans and teammates. He emphasized the team’s focus on their upcoming match against Lecce, stating, “Today we started thinking about what should happen on Friday.”
Discussing his unique goal celebration, Gabbia explained, “It was a very beautiful celebration. The history of my goals with Milan has always been a bit particular. They were never goals that led to a victory; we were already winning. I was a bit unlucky on that, but let’s say that the goal the other night made up for everything, and I enjoyed it fully with the fans. Feeling all that warmth was really special.”
When asked about the national team, with coach Spalletti present at the derby, Gabbia expressed hope for a future call-up but emphasized his priorities: “The national team is a dream that I hope can come true in my future. Let’s say it’s not my priority at the moment; my priority is Milan and Milanello, and trying to do the best I can for this shirt because that’s the most important thing. Milan is my priority.”
Regarding his contract situation, Gabbia remained diplomatic: “As I said before, I have a contract with Milan. What the club will do, I don’t know. They know what I would like. I have this shirt on and I’m happy like this. Anyway, at this moment I don’t have the need; I have a contract. I’m calm and relaxed; the important thing is to continue to do well, which is the priority for me, for the coach, and for the club.”
Gabbia also reflected on his loan spell at Villarreal, describing it as part of his growth: “They gave me the opportunity to play with more continuity and to know a new football. My journey was also beautiful because of this; every stage I’ve been through has helped me in something. Now I’m back at Milan and I try to enjoy every moment to stay here as long as possible.”
Looking ahead, Gabbia acknowledged the team’s current standing but remained optimistic: “Surely we are not very happy with the points we have in the league, but looking at the past at this moment is not important: we must look to the future to try to get satisfaction, aware of the fact that everything we do at this moment can lead us to a good path at the end of the year. It’s still early; everything is still possible.”
