MY ACCOUNT
Divock Origi is drawing inspiration from the feats of Milan striking greats Marco van Basten, Andriy Shevchenko and Filippo Inzaghi after joining the Serie A champions from Liverpool.
Origi signed a four-year deal with the 2021-22 Scudetto winners on Tuesday, having enjoyed a trophy-laden eight-year stint at Anfield before departing on a free transfer.
The Belgium international scored 41 goals in 176 appearances as he earned cult-hero status at Liverpool, netting seven goals in 10 games against Merseyside rivals Everton and adding a crucial second goal to seal the Reds’ 2019 Champions League final win over Tottenham.
In his first media conference in Milan, the 27-year-old hailed the Rossoneri’s title-winners as he targeted making a valuable contribution next term.
“I spoke with the club towards the end of the season, but I was just concentrating on finishing the season with Liverpool,” he said.
“Once that was done, I understood and shared the vision of the club, the people here made me realise the special journey this squad is on and the history being written, and I want to play my part in continuing it in the coming years.
“There are many players that have played their role in Milan’s history that I admire, therefore, it’s quite difficult to choose.
“For example, I’m thinking of Van Basten, Shevchenko, Inzaghi, who have all been part of this wonderful club. I don’t like to compare myself with others because we all have our own story to tell and path to take.
“I believe it’s possible to take inspiration from any player, in any position, and even from outside the footballing world. My goal is just to continuously grow as a player.”
Origi scored in San Siro during a 2-1 Champions League win for Liverpool last December and says the sense of history surrounding Milan’s famous home was a key attraction.
“I absolutely felt the atmosphere in the game in San Siro,” he added. “In this stadium, you are able to feel the sense of history and the culture of the club.
“This is also why it is an honour and a pleasure to be here, to have the opportunity to play in this magical stadium.
“When Milan got the first goal, you could hear the backing and push given by the fans, that feeling between the crowd and players is special.”
Origi won six major trophies – including Premier League and Champions League titles – at Liverpool, and emphasised his gratitude for former boss Jurgen Klopp’s contribution to his career as he looked forward to the challenge of featuring in another major league.
“I am extremely grateful and appreciative of my time at Liverpool, it’s a club that has provided me with everything,” Origi added.
“Me and Klopp have shared an incredible experience together, we’ve won lots, and I’m very proud to have had him as my coach. With coach [Stefano] Pioli, I hope it will be the same and I can’t wait to start working with him.
“My time at Liverpool was very emotional, especially the goodbyes, but now it’s time to start a new journey, giving this club the best version of me.
“Serie A and the Premier League are two completely different leagues. I have been fortunate to be able to play in different national championships – Germany, France, England – and also in international football.
“The Italian league is very tactical, maybe in England, it’s more physical. I think I’m going to learn a lot tactically in Italy, but at the same time contribute in the way I can from my experiences.”
