Diego Moreira Embraces Kaká’s Legacy Ahead of Derby della Madonnina
Diego Moreira expressed his pride in donning the iconic No 22 shirt, previously worn by Kaká, as he prepares to give his all in his first Derby della Madonnina tonight. Speaking to DAZN in the “Remember the Name” series, the Belgian winger discussed his anticipation for AC Milan’s match against Inter, scheduled to start at 20:45 CET [19:45 GMT].
“I wanted the No 7 when I arrived. When I found out it was available I could have changed, but I’m happy with 22,” Moreira stated. “It’s an honour, and now it’s up to me to show I can follow in his footsteps, because he left a legacy here.”
Moreira, who joined Milan from Strasbourg in August for a reported fee of €50 million plus add-ons, has signed a five-year contract. He has recently dealt with hamstring fatigue, sidelining him during the last two matches, including Milan’s 2-0 win at Udinese and a 4-2 home defeat against Bologna. However, Rúben Amorim confirmed that he is fit to participate in the derby.
The young talent acknowledges the significance of the match, particularly given Kaká’s illustrious history with the club, including scoring his first Milan goal in a 3-1 derby victory over Inter back in October 2003. “I know he scored his first goal against Inter. It’s one of the biggest games in Europe, so we’re fired up,” Moreira added. “If I get to play in this game, I’ll die for my team. I can’t wait.”
As the derby approaches, Milan finds itself in fifth place with 18 points, trailing seven points behind league leaders, Inter and Lazio.
