Hakan Calhanoglu opened up on the crosstown move from Milan to Inter in an interview: “I spent four good years with the Rossoneri. We have had some tough moments, but the last two seasons were better thanks to Stefano Pioli. The Nerazzurri won the title last year and were often successful in the Derby. I chose to sign with them because I wanted a new challenge.”
Calhanoglu talked to Corriere dello Sport: “I have met many Milan fans, and they still love me. I have never had any issue with anybody inside the club. It did not surprise me to be a free agent for some time. I was calm because I was confident in my skills. The possibility of remaining without a team never crossed my mind. I was sure something would come up eventually. I spoke with Simone Inzaghi beforehand, and it was palpable that he wanted me. We have built a strong relationship.”
Calhanolgu is playing in a slightly different role: “I had more freedom with the Rossoneri because I featured as no.10 and had just one striker in front of me. Now I have to track back more, recover and distribute the ball. I think I have done well thus far, and I am learning the movements of a box-to-box midfielder. I prefer assisting over scoring.”
Calhanoglu indicated who impressed him the most in his new team: “If I have to single out somebody, I would say Milan Skriniar. He is a great person and defender. Alessandro Bastoni often teases me that I never won anything, but I hope we can lift the Scudetto together this year. Few teams are in the running, but we are the favorites. Instead, the Champions League group is wide open. We want to advance, and we will.”