"The first year was two-fold. First, I learned a lot from a tactical standpoint. Before, I was a more instinctive player. Today, I'm more disciplined. I try to respect instructions better, to read the game better. I try to do what the team needs. It's not just about winning balls back. You also have to know how to build plays, help your team-mates, and be well-positioned."
"It's as if I've looked at football a certain way for years, and now my perception is changing. I no longer see the pitch from the same angle. I no longer have the same points of reference. I'm taking a step forward in my career with an Italian giant, and nobody sees me. I don't need this recognition, I'm not one of those players who needs a pat on the back."
Youssouf Fofana joined AC Milan from Monaco in summer 2024 as the defensive midfielder to complement Tijjani Reijnders. Despite midfield competition from new arrivals including Massimiliano Allegri, Luka Modric, Adrien Rabiot, Ardon Jashari, and Samuele Ricci, Fofana has secured regular starts on the right side of the midfield three. He credits his development to tactical growth, transitioning from an instinctive player to a more disciplined one who respects tactical instructions and reads the game better. Fofana emphasizes his commitment to team needs, positioning, and building play rather than solely winning possession. He views his Milan experience as a significant career step with an Italian giant and maintains he doesn't require external recognition.
Read at SempreMilan
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