Pierre Kalulu was one of the best players for AC Milan in the 2021/22 season and together with Fikayo Tomori, he created a near-unbeatable defence. Despite his young age, he’s very aware and mature.
After playing mostly as a right-back in his debut season for the Rossoneri, Kalulu was thrown into action in the centre due to an injury crisis this season. And he certainly delivered, showing his best qualities in that position.
Along with Tomori, he made sure that Milan kept an incredible 19 clean sheets (in the league) this season and also cemented himself as a starter. The first season wasn’t as convincing, but it taught him a lot.
Speaking to Vista, as cited by MilanNews, Kalulu revealed that he was so busy in his debut that he didn’t even think about the importance of the occasion. He also shared some important advice for other young footballers.
On his debut…
“My debut came late. It took place away against Sparta [Prague] in the Europa League, I hadn’t played for 4 months. I followed a physical and tactical adaptation plan for a few months: it’s a very different game from France, which I had to understand. I decided to grit my teeth. At Lyon, we trained to be the best in every position, even in midfield.
“When you aren’t playing you have no right to be happy, you have to pursue your goals. I struggle and sweat. In my debut, I was so busy that I didn’t feel the pressure. Now I would run as I did then. The first game went very well and the manager noticed how much I was running and my strength. But obviously, there were things to improve.”
Advice for youngsters…
“What I can say to today’s youngsters is: don’t waste your time, training doesn’t wait for anyone. Regrets hurt a lot, more than fatigue. Even outside the world of football. Try it,” he concluded.
