AC Milan defender Jan-Carlo Simic has commended Stefano Pioli and Ignazio Abate for their influential roles in his development.
Simic likely anticipated spending the 2023-24 season primarily with the Primavera squad or possibly on loan elsewhere. However, due to Milan’s defensive injury crisis towards the end of last year, he earned Serie A minutes and even scored his first senior goal. This unexpected opportunity allowed him to showcase his capabilities, leading to a recent call-up to the Serbian senior national team.
His memorable goal against Monza in December prompted emotional reactions from his parents, who were visibly moved to tears while watching him play at San Siro. Simic expressed his gratitude by stating his intention to gift his first Serie A shirt to them.
During an interview with Milan TV as part of the ‘Homegrown’ series, Simic discussed his seamless integration across the Primavera and senior teams, highlighting the relationships he has cultivated with teammates and coaches. Regarding his experience playing under Abate, Simic praised the coach for grooming him for the transition to the first team, emphasizing Abate’s instrumental role in his development.
Simic also spoke highly of Pioli, acknowledging the coach’s expertise in Serie A and his efforts to refine Simic’s skills. Grateful for the trust Pioli placed in him, Simic expressed his enduring appreciation for the opportunity to prove himself at the senior level.
When asked about the dynamics within the Primavera and senior team locker rooms, Simic revealed that he shares a camaraderie with all his Primavera teammates, often bonding and socializing together. In the senior team, he has developed a close rapport with Thiaw, engaging in conversations in German. Additionally, veteran defender Kjaer serves as a mentor figure for Simic in his role, while Jovic views him as a younger sibling.