Sassuolo midfielder Manuel Locatelli said coach Roberto De Zerbi has ‘changed my life’ and added he ‘wasn’t ready for the expectations’ at Milan.
The former Rossoneri midfielder moved to the Mapei Stadium on loan in August 2018, before making a permanent switch for €12.5m in July 2019.
The 22-year-old has excelled at the Neroverdi and has given coach De Zerbi the merit for his growth.
“The coach has changed my life,” Locatelli told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “I’m seen as a different player and another person, better.
“He has the merit of helping me mature and perform at my best on and off the pitch.”
The Italy international said it was hard to demonstrate what he can contribute immediately and said he will always be grateful to Milan.
“You always want to reach the top immediately, but it’s the dedication to work that helps you achieve great results.
“I want to take this opportunity to say that I will thank Milan for life, and I will always wish them well.
“Milan was my home and therefore we never speak badly of our homes. Despite everything that has been said, I will always thank Milan.
“Things didn’t go as they should, but I will always speak well of Milan.”
Locatelli admitted he ‘wasn’t ready’ as expectations ‘sky-rocketed’ after his spectacular goal against Juventus.
“The goal against Juventus was a double-edged sword. It gave me immense joy to score against that goalkeeper, a goal like that against a such a champion was incredible.
“Then it became difficult to manage because I was always asked to score spectacular goals, expectations sky-rocketed and therefore it was complicated.
“I wasn’t ready. But now I see things differently and I’m aware that the goal will remain in history, certainly in my heart."