Last Friday, Alvaro Morata was presented as a new AC Milan player, causing a stir at his former team, Atletico Madrid. During his presentation, Morata made statements that could cause tensions with his former teammates, such as Koke and Jan Oblak.
Alvaro Morata is delighted to be back in Italy
Morata, who had already played in Serie A with Juventus, expressed his happiness at returning to a league where he feels comfortable.
“I am happy and pleased. At Milan they will notice that I was a good signing,” said the striker. He also mentioned that in Italy he never suffered any disrespect while he was with his family.
This comment could be interpreted as an indirect criticism of his time at Atletico Madrid. Although he was an important figure in the team, he perhaps did not always feel fully supported or valued.
What could have really upset Atlético's dressing room were his comments on the process of signing for Milan. "I had several options to return to Italy, but as soon as I spoke to Zlatan and the coach, I didn't have to think about anything else," Morata revealed. "No team wanted me that much, it seemed like I was already a Milan player during the Euros."
These words suggest that Morata felt more support from Milan than from Atletico Madrid. Furthermore, by saying that “it seemed like he was already a Milan fan during the Euros”, he hints that his departure from Atletico was already decided for some time. This could be seen as a lack of loyalty towards the red-and-white club, which could upset key figures such as Koke and Oblak.
Morata values Milan's confidence
Morata also stressed the importance of confidence for his performance. “I needed confidence and in Italy they gave it to me,” said the Spanish striker. This comment can be interpreted as a criticism of Atlético de Madrid, insinuating that he did not find the necessary support to shine in the red-and-white team.
These statements could be seen as disrespectful towards his former teammates, especially Koke and Oblak. Both players could feel slighted by the insinuations that Morata did not receive the support he needed in Madrid.
Although Morata is enthusiastic about his new stage at AC Milan, his words have caused discomfort at Atlético de Madrid. Instead of closing his chapter at the red-and-white team peacefully, his statements could have sown resentment.