FÜLLKRUG: "IT'S THE IDEAL TIME TO COME TO AC MILAN" | OneFootball

Niclas Füllkrug, time for the official presentation. After his arrival, signing, first minutes on the pitch and his initial impact with the team and environment, the German striker - the club's new winter transfer - has spoken to the media at his press conference at Casa Milan, live on the AC Milan Official App and Milan TV.

JOINING THE ROSSONERI "This is a quality team, a healthy group with some standout players. After the win at Cagliari, I felt that energy that comes with a win and I think it really shows the kind of environment this is. With my personality, I think I will fit in well, and contribute to the positive atmosphere, helping the team achieve important results. I'm joining at the perfect time in my career. The team has made it easy for me to settle. My teammates have welcomed me warmly, and I've been able to give my best right from the start. I first got to know this Club during the 2003 Champions League Final, I was just 9 years old. Since then, I've watched many European matches, and when I played AC Milan for the first time, I realised it's a really special team. I told myself that if I ever got the chance to join, I would take it." 

NUMBER 9 "It's synonymous with goals. I didn't choose in the past, I only wore it for the national team and when I was younger. It carries a certain weight, and I know the history of the number at this Club. I hope I can live up to what is such an important legacy."

PLAYING AT SAN SIRO "I played here two years ago in the Champions League with Borussia Dortmund. It was my first time, but playing here wearing the AC Milan shirt is completely different. This club has a magical aura, it's special to play at home here. I am grateful for the opportunity. The fans gave me an amazing first night. I would have loved to score the winning goal, it would have been the perfect debut. But I have no doubt there will be more great nights ahead."

ITALIAN FOOTBALL AND HIS ROLE "Before arriving, I watched various matches, and out of personal interest I’ve been following Serie A for years, so of course I’ve seen AC Milan too. I was aware of how this team plays and how I could make a meaningful contribution. I’m different from the other forwards in the squad, and the overall quality here is enormous. I think I can bring physical presence and the ability to occupy the box. In the first two matches, I’ve realised I’ll have to fight against defenders, and I’m ready to sacrifice myself for the team even in tough situations. Playing as part of a front three? That could be an option. Coming on in the last 20-30 minutes can sometimes have more impact than starting the match."

ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIĆ "I had the pleasure of meeting him and talking with him. Since I was young, I've watched him play a lot. He was the ultimate forward. He gave me some advice and told me what he hopes to see from me. I hope I can achieve that on the pitch, and earn his respect."

NEW TEAMMATES "There are some incredibly strong players here. For example, Modrić is hugely successful and experienced. I faced him in the Champions League Final against Real Madrid. He’s the most important Croatian in football history and has extraordinary quality in both phases of play. It’s amazing to be able to play alongside him, but we also have many other valuable players. I think I can build a good understanding with the wingers for their crosses. Even with Nkunku, Pulisic, and Leão, we can complement each other and benefit from one another."

GERMANS IN ITALY "This country has always held a special place in my mind, and I’ve often wondered if it could be the right place for me. Players like Klose, Bierhoff, and Völler have played here. I spoke with Völler, and he had great things to say about Serie A. Bierhoff told me I would do well here. I hope I can adapt well to AC Milan’s style: we like to keep possession and create lots of chances. It’s a great environment for me, and the league suits me. I couldn’t turn down this opportunity. I’m grateful that people have faith in me and believe I can make a difference for the team."

AMBITIONS AND GOALS "AC Milan, given its history, must be in the Champions League. I want to focus on things that I can have an impact on. I want to win the next game and help the team reach it's goals. Every three points brings us closer to the final aim. The more matches we win, the better our chances of finishing the season with a great result. I came here because I wanted to. I've always wanted to wear presitigious shirts. For me, it's a positive pressure to manage and it's great to play for a team that's never satisfied with a draw. In many games, we are the favourites, and we have to live up to that. It takes a lot of hard work, but I feel ready. Germany? I've had good performances with the national team, and I hope to be regularly available again, so I can continue where I left off."

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