Milan: so many loans and so little trust, the story of hero Matteo Gabbia

Bred in the Rossoneri youth sector, è lifelong Milanista

"I am so happy for us and the fans. It was a difficult moment, but this match will give us a lot of energy for the next games. I am really happy for these amazing people who always support us". These are the words of Gabbia, released to DAZN, in the post-match of the Derby. A Derby that he decided with one of his frames in the final minutes.

The goal of a lifetime, the goal of a true Milanista who, after so many difficulties, has, at last, experienced his moment of maximum joy. Growing up in the Milan youth ranks, Gabbia made his debut with the Diavolo shirt in August 2017 in the Europa League. At the time he was only 18 years old and was spoken of highly.

As is often the case, breaking through also requires a bit of luck. Gabbia, class of 1999, was not è very lucky early in his career. Little confidence in his means. First the loan to Lucchese (2018/19 season), then, back at Milan, "only" 50 appearances in four years, most as a substitute. In the summer of 2023, Milan parked him at Villarreal.

Complicated by the many injuries, at the defensive department level, at AC Milan during the past season, he was recalled to the Rossoneri last January and Gabbia made himself ready. In the summer he was not è among the possible departures. This year, at the first real opportunity, Gabbia makes himself very ready: he scores in the Derby and makes an entire people go crazy with joy. At 24 years old, è his time has come.