Traore: I'm not just defensive

By Football Italia staff

Bakaye Traore has been presented to the Press on his second day as a Milan player and declares that he is more than just a defensive midfielder.

The 27-year-old agreed a Bosman transfer to the Rossoneri from Nancy in mid-May, agreeing to a three-year deal once his contract in France wound down to its conclusion this summer.

A tall midfielder with more goals than yellow cards to his name, the French-born Mali international has reflectedon where he feels he will fit in with his new club.

“I was surprised by the wonderful welcome from everyone. It is a dream come true to play here and now I want to repay that faith on the pitch,” Traore told Milan’s official website.

“I am a versatile midfielder - I can play in any position in a midfield diamond, from the inside midfielder, further back and playmaker.

“It has been said that Italy is playing a more defensive football, but I disagree - there is much more to me than believed in France, I hope to demonstrate that here and realise my full potential.

“I have been compared to Patrick Vieira as a midfielder, who at Arsenal showed his ability to do well both in defence and attack.

“My teammates who speak French are helping me in these days to understand the drill, but I will soon understand everything myself.”

Watch Serie A live in the UK on Premier Sports for just £9.99 per month including live LaLiga, Eredivisie, Scottish Cup Football and more. Visit: https://www.premiersports.com/subscribenow