Calabria reveals more on Milan exit and Bologna move: “The right thing for everyone” | OneFootball

Davide Calabria has shed a bit more light on how his AC Milan exit came about and also why he chose Bologna for his next adventure.

It first came to light the weekend before the winter mercato deadline that Calabria was on the move as he left Milanello on Saturday looking very emotional, confirming that a new chapter was about to begin for him in his career after 18 years at his boyhood club.

Given that his contract with Milan was set to expire at the end of the season and there was seemingly no desire to discuss a renewal, the decision was taken to part ways now. In the end the right-back has got himself a decent move to a club that got in the top four last season.

This afternoon, the press conference was held to present Calabria as a new signing following his move to Bologna late in the window, and his comments regarding the switch were transcribed by MilanNews.

How did this situation arise and develop, did something fall apart at Milan?

“It was a choice that matured as the days went by, it was the right thing for everyone. We faced it in a mature way and it seemed the most logical for everyone.

“There was a bit of sadness in saying goodbye, but I also know how much I gave for that shirt, but I chose this place as a new adventure because I believe there is potential.

“The director made a good impression on the phone and also living here I found a pleasant environment, an ambitious team that works hard.

“I think it can help me have a good season from now until the end and I think I can help this team grow, from the first moment I arrived I was immediately happy and this is very important for me.”

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Did Pobega and Saelemakers give you any advice? How have you settled into the group?

“I’ve heard from Tommi and Alex, also to find a home (laughs). But just look at how well Bologna has worked in recent years, that was the main thing to understand that it was the right choice for me.

“I enter in my own way, I’m not arrogant, there’s mutual respect, a happy environment, it’s a super nice thing, they welcomed me in a big way… but everyone, from the players to the staff. It’s important for new players to feel part of the group.”

That disagreement with Conceicao… was that a reason too? And why that shirt number?

“I don’t want to go back over what happened. 14 is a number I’ve used since I was a child.”

You will have to play against Milan…

“I can’t wait to play it, I’m excited for this challenge and also to play that challenge, it’s new and I take new things in a positive way, it will be nice to meet my former team-mates.”