Rade Krunic claims he has 'the same characteristics' as Kevin de Bruyne and hopes the 'very, very good' Ismael Bennacer joins him at Milan.
Krunic was presented as a Milan player for the first time alongside fellow new recruit Theo Hernandez on Friday, and the former Empoli midfielder gave fans an glimpse into what they could expect from him.
“My first impressions have been extraordinary,” said the 25-year-old.
“Milan are a great club and I immediately found myself very well. I can't wait to get back into the group and play.
“I know Giampaolo, he was my first Coach in Italy: not so much has changed in training. He has a vision of play and he prides himself on it.
“Us players can have so much fun under him. He likes ball possession and youngsters like me can grow a lot with him. He can do very well here. He deserved this opportunity.
“I'm a modern midfielder. I carry out both phases of the game. I'm box to box as the British say.
“I was always told that I came across a bit like Hamsik. I think he's more technical and I have more physical qualities.
“My idol is Kaka, but he's more of an attacking midfielder. I watch a lot of De Bruyne for Manchester City. I think we have the same characteristics.
“While I've been in Italy, my objective has been to join a great team. I'm very happy that it's Milan. It could've been Samp in the past, but it didn't happen.
“It's better that I waited a little and joined Giampaolo at a great team. I'm quite mature now. I've grown a lot.
“When I arrived in Italy, I was lacking in a couple of things. I wasn't good in front of goal, but I've improved this year.
“My strength lies in technique. I can give a lot on the field, in terms of moving the ball around quickly. That's my most important quality.”
The Bosnian then urged his new club to push through a deal for Bennacer, who was his midfield partner in Tuscany.
“I think he's ready, I've never talked to anyone about him. I only talked to Empoli's sporting director before coming to Milan.
“I was wondering how it was possible for him to play with us. He's very, very good. He's very ready for a move like this and to join a great team.
“I've played with Paredes and Pjanic. Bennacer is very close to them. I'd like his arrival, he could do very well here.”