Embracing a New Chapter in Italy
Tammy Abraham has undergone a significant transformation since his €41m move to Roma in the summer of 2021. After an initial period of success, Abraham found himself increasingly sidelined, leading to a loan move to AC Milan. The English striker’s journey to Italy was not just about seeking a change but also about stepping out of his comfort zone. "The first thing I said when I came out here was it’s time to spread my wings and try something different," Abraham shared in an interview with CBS Sports. He emphasized that Serie A offers a unique blend of cultural and footballing experiences, making it an ideal destination for players looking to broaden their horizons. Abraham’s advice to fellow English players considering a move to Italy was straightforward: "When Walker called me, it was a clear and obvious answer. I just told him how big a club this is, how wonderful it is, my experience so far. It wasn’t a hard decision."
A Rollercoaster Season at Milan
Abraham’s time at AC Milan has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. The club’s ambitions, including a spot in the Champions League, have set high expectations, but setbacks have been inevitable. "There are always going to be ups and downs, it’s about how we overcome this," Abraham reflected. The team’s performance in the Supercoppa Italiana, where Abraham scored the decisive goal against Inter in the 93rd minute, marked a high point. However, the arrival of Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord in the winter window has added competition, making starts more challenging. Despite this, Abraham remains optimistic. "This is one of those occasions where we have to learn and get stronger as a team. We have the chance to win another trophy, which we’re fighting to do whenever we can," he added. Abraham’s resilience and willingness to adapt have been crucial in navigating the ups and downs of his season at Milan.
Leadership and Drive: Conceicao and Mourinho
One of the most striking aspects of Abraham’s time in Italy has been the similarities he sees between his former manager, Jose Mourinho, and his current coach, Sergio Conceicao. Both managers, according to Abraham, share a relentless drive to succeed and an unwavering belief in their vision. "Playing with Conceicao and Jose, they both really believe in what they want to achieve. They are driven, hard-working, and they want the best from you. They will get it out no matter what," he said. This strong leadership has been instrumental in shaping Abraham’s approach to the game. "As players, we all need that drive to perform at our best… I’m a winner, I want to win, I believe you live once, so always enjoy your time, try to play with a smile on your face. I am living my dream," he added. Abraham’s positive attitude and competitive spirit reflect the influence of these mentors.
The Dream of a Derby della Madonnina Win
One of Abraham’s most cherished dreams is to score in the Derby della Madonnina, the intense rivalry between AC Milan and Inter Milan. This aspiration has driven him to push himself harder and to seek opportunities to make a significant impact. "It’s a special moment, a dream come true, to score in a derby," he said. Abraham’s goal in the Supercoppa Italiana was a step closer to that dream, but he is not content to rest on his laurels. The English striker’s determination to excel in such high-stakes matches is a testament to his ambition and his commitment to the club. "We are AC Milan, so every trophy we should want to win," he emphasized. Abraham’s passion and dedication have made him a valuable asset to the team, and his enthusiasm is contagious among his teammates.
Adapting to the Italian Football Culture
Adapting to the Italian football culture has been a significant part of Abraham’s journey. The tactical nuances and the emphasis on technical skills in Serie A have presented new challenges and learning opportunities. "There is no better place than Italy to learn the culture and the football. Life is good out here, so it’s definitely a good experience," Abraham shared. Despite the ups and downs, he has embraced the Italian way of football and life, finding that the holistic experience of living in Italy has enriched his personal and professional growth. "It’s not just about the football; it’s about living a different lifestyle, experiencing different cultures, and growing as a person," he added. Abraham’s adaptability and openness to new experiences have been key to his success in Italy, and he continues to grow with each new challenge.
Future Ambitions and Staying Positive
Looking ahead, Abraham is focused on making the most of his time at AC Milan and proving that he deserves a permanent stay. "We have the chance to win another trophy, which we’re fighting to do whenever we can," he said. Despite the competition for starting positions, Abraham remains determined and positive. "It’s been a rollercoaster, but we’re still here, we are ready to fight, and we are AC Milan," he emphasized. Abraham’s journey so far has been marked by resilience, adaptability, and a strong competitive spirit. Whether it’s scoring crucial goals or fighting for his place in the starting lineup, he approaches each challenge with a smile and a determination to succeed. As he continues to leave his mark in Italy, Tammy Abraham is living his dream and inspiring others to step out of their comfort zones and embrace new beginnings.
