De Zerbi said Milan target Estupiñán ‘could become one of the best in the world’ | OneFootball

Two years ago, then-Brighton head coach Roberto De Zerbi described Pervis Estupiñán as having the potential to “become one of the best left-backs in the world”, with his quotes re-surfacing after reports linked the Ecuadorian with a move to Milan.

Rumours have intensified over the past couple of days surrounding the 27-year-old’s future at Brighton, where De Zerbi used to coach the player. Milan appear to have identified the talented left-back as a replacement for Theo Hernandez, who left the club to join Al-Hilal this summer.

UDINE, ITALY – APRIL 11: Theo Hernandez of AC Milan during the Serie A match between Udinese and AC Milan at Stadio Friuli on April 11, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

De Zerbi billed Estupiñán for great things

Speaking two years ago, with quotes via PianetaMilan, when De Zerbi was Estupiñán’s head coach at Brighton, the Italian said “I have to admit that Pervis is one of the most important players for us” due to his versatility, continuing “he started out as a left-back but you can also find him in the attack.”

De Zerbi described the Ecuadorian as “very intelligent” and praised the defender for “improving his first touch and passing” under his guidance but admitted “I’m always pushing him further.”

BRIGHTON, ENGLAND – APRIL 02: Pervis Estupinan of Brighton & Hove Albion looks o during the Premier League match between Brighton & Hove Albion FC and Aston Villa FC at Amex Stadium on April 02, 2025 in Brighton, England. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

The Marseille head coach added that “if he gets his first touch and passing skills perfect, I think he can become one of the best left-backs in the world.”

Estupiñán has failed to emerge as a leading star after De Zerbi left Brighton but Milan may be encouraged that a coach like the Italian identified Estupiñán’s untapped potential.