Michelis: “My goal is to play for the senior national team”
In a recent interview with Sport 24, AC Milan prospect Nikos Michelis opened up about his Italian experience so far, revealing his desire to become a senior international in the future.
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Michelis moved to AC Milan from Asteras Tripolis in January 2019. At first, many in the footballing world were surprised to see Milan signing an Asteras player, but the humble Greek organisation has a proud history of churning out great talents. Recently, the promising 19-year-old gave an interview with Sport 24, talking us through his time in Italy to date.
“I found out through Sports Connection that Milan wanted to sign me,” began Michelis. “To be honest, when I first turned up to the training base, I felt nervous. Nevertheless, as soon as I stepped on to the pitch, the nerves disappeared. Everyone at Milan immediately treated me the same as the other players. It was great.”
During his maiden full campaign in Italy, Michelis made 15 appearances for Milan’s youth team in the Primavera, popping up with the one assist in a 5-2 victory against Entella at home in late November. Capable of competing both as a defensive midfielder and a centre-back, the young Greek certainly offers versatility, something which he was asked about: “I think that Milan were impressed by my height,” said Michelis. “I like to have the ball at my feet. Furthermore, I can play as a holding midfielder or as a central defender, I’m used to playing as a centre-back and it isn’t a problem at all. I like both positions.”
Data provided by Transfermarkt clearly shows that Michelis, standing 192 centimeters tall, is consistently used as a centre-back by the Milan coaching staff.
“The way of working in Italy is completely different,” continued the teenager. “Italian facilities are better, and the same can be said for the organisation. There is more pressure, though, given the size of this club. Even the Primavera is a highly competitive league, the football is not like it is in Greece. The tactics in the Primavera mainly focus on defending solidly.”
Michelis even mentioned that he has spent time training with the senior Milan side: “Yes, I trained with Hakan Calhanoglu and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, and the speed and physicality was of a much higher level. To tell you the truth, it was really difficult, but I enjoyed it. I held discussions with players like Ibrahimovic. We haven’t spoken since, but it was a nice experience.”
Later in the conversation, Michalis touched upon his international ambitions, confirming that one of his main goals is to represent Greece: “Without a doubt, my target is to compete for the senior Greek national team. There is more honour and importance connected with playing at international level. My club future? My career hasn’t started professionally yet, so I can’t say yes or no with regard to returning to Greece. I really miss being in Greece, however, it’s very different living in Italy. My dream is to play for the senior Milan team.”
His contract with Milan is due to expire in the summer of 2021. As an international footballer, Michelis has participated in a combined total of seven games for the under 18 and under 19 Greek national teams, scoring the one goal along the way.
You can discover more information about Michelis’ story by reading his AGONA Profile.
