New Milan signing Emerson Royal is delighted that Zlatan Ibrahimovic followed him at Tottenham and insists he will be ‘a warrior’ for the Rossoneri.
Brazilian defender Emerson Royal was unveiled as a new Milan signing at a press conference on Tuesday.
He was joined by Red Bird Advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who played a crucial role in negotiations between the clubs.
“Yes, I’ve often talked to the club and its representatives,” said Emerson as quoted by Milannews.
“It was always clear that Milan were the best option for me. Milan always believed in me. I am very young, but I’ve been a leader in every team I’ve played for. It’s part of my character. I talk to my teammates quite often during training sessions. I want to thank Zlatan for this opportunity and the effort he put into bringing me here. I want to give my best.
“Zlatan makes a difference worldwide; everyone knows it,” continued the Brazilian defender.
“He had an incredible career and has always shown his desire to win. Knowing that someone like Ibra was following me was a great satisfaction. I want to repay his trust on the pitch.”
Emerson can’t wait to meet his coach, Paulo Fonseca, and his new teammates.
“I haven’t talked to the coach yet. Milan have had Thiago Silva, Cafu and all the Brazilians who played here have written a great history. I have great motivation. You can rely on a warrior,” he said.
Emerson Royal delighted that Ibra followed him at Tottenham before Milan move
“I think the coach knows my skill sets. I’ve proved that I can attack and defend with great intensity.
“I got emotional when I entered Milan’s museum; it doesn’t happen to me so often. I saw all the trophies that Milan won. It really was a dream,” continued Emerson.
“All Brazilians want to come here. It’s an incredible honour to me, a very important moment. I can’t wait to wear this shirt.”
In fact, it is probably no coincidence that Emerson picked the same squad No. as a well-known Brazilian legend at San Siro, Kaka.
“The No.22 has an important tradition here and I had this number in my best seasons,” said the new Rossoneri signing.
“I haven’t talked to him [Kaka] yet, but having this legacy is one of the best things of my life.”
Emerson will likely challenge Davide Calabria for a starting spot as a right-back, but can he play in central defence too?
“I’ve always helped my teams. Last season, I played as a full-back and as a centre-back,” said the versatile defender.
“If the coach wants, I can play any role. I give my best in my position.
“I think Serie A is a little more static, but I’ve always been good tactically and I’ll have no problems,” continued Emerson.
“I want to learn and do things well. I’ll follow the necessary instructions.
“I’ve watched Milan games and I think we have incredible players. It will be a pleasure to share the pitch with them. I’ve talked to Leao and Morata. They’ll help me. I want to become friends with all footballers.”
Emerson has completed a permanent transfer to San Siro, signing a contract until 2028 with an option for a further campaign.
