Siena loanee Zé Eduardo has revealed he turned down the chance to join AC Milan.
The 24-year-old forward, who is owned by Genoa, was offered the chance to join the Rossoneri on a season-long loan deal during the summer transfer window, but the move failed to materialise.
It is believed that AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri asked to the club’s board to have Zé Eduardo on trial for nine days before any deal was to be finalised, but the Brazilian has admitted that he did not feel he needed to prove himself to the Italian.
”I was at Genoa and the director said there was this opportunity. When I went to Milan I thought it was one thing, but it turned out to be another,” Zé Eduardo said.
”I had a good contract with Genoa, so I said no to this option. It’s true, I had been injured, but a year ago I was playing for Santos, who in my opinion are the best club in Brazil. I didn’t feel it was right, with all due respect, to go to Milan for an audition. I have dignity and didn’t want to go through a trial run.”
Zé Eduardo subsequently joined Siena on a season-long loan deal, and the player is now aiming to make his mark in Italy after failing to score a single goal in nine Serie A appearances for Genoa last term.
”I aim to have a great season and I’m happy to be here in Tuscany. The Coach has faith in me. I am Zé Eduardo and want to impress with Siena so I can let my name be known in Italy too,” he said.
”Serse Cosmi is a great man. When he arrived, he immediately talked to the squad and showed he is someone who wants to win.”
