After the unhappy experiences with Real Madrid and Manchester City, Robinho wishes to redeem himself in Milan. "This is a good opportunity, and I don't want to let it slip away. I know that as long as I am physically fit, I can return to my best. The environment at Milan suits me well." Robinho revealed that he did not have any conflicts with Roberto Mancini; he just didn't enjoy English football. "I had a good relationship with Mancini, and I think he is an excellent coach. However, English football doesn't suit my style. There are too many long passes and very little footwork combination. It's tough for Brazilian players. But it's different in Italy; I enjoy it here, and this is exactly the football style I like."
Since Robinho joined, his close friend Ronaldinho seemed to have lost his starting position. "I think Ronaldinho is an incredible player who can make a difference when he's in good form. I like playing alongside him. Regardless of our friendship, there's no competition between us. I know he's unhappy, and no one likes sitting on the bench. Also, regarding Pato, I hope he can return soon. He is very important to Milan."
Following Ibrahimovic, Robinho also expressed his desire to stay with Milan for a long time. "Everyone here has been helping me, especially my Brazilian compatriots. Milan has the soul of Brazil, and there's no better team than this. I don't want to wander anymore; I'm willing to stay here for another ten years."
After adapting at the start of the season, Robinho has now become an indispensable player for AC Milan. In an exclusive interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, the单车少年 (bicycle boy) revealed that Kaka advised him to join the Rossoneri, stating that Milan is a paradise for Brazilian players, and he is willing to stay for ten years.
Robinho talked about the most difficult aspect of coming to Italy: Serie A tactics. "Age has never been an issue for me. Tactics were the biggest challenge I faced when I came to Serie A. Here, more emphasis is placed on defense, and the game moves quickly." The Milan player said he was willing to help the team defensively. "I know my strengths, and if my physical condition allows, I am willing to give my all. But the biggest challenge isn't just playing a good game; it's maintaining consistency. My goal is to return to my peak. I work hard, and a true Robinho can contribute even more."
Milan signed Robinho at the last moment before the transfer window closed, which was considered one of Galliani's masterstrokes. "I don't know when Milan contacted my father, but we started negotiating a month before the transfer window closed," Robinho said. "Actually, I started learning Italian when I was at Real Madrid, thanks to Cannavaro. Before joining, I consulted with Kaka, and he told me Milan was the best team for Brazilian players. He was right."
Robinho also mentioned his former teammate at Real Madrid, Cassano, who is currently being sidelined by his club. "Antonio is an extraordinary player, but sometimes a bit crazy. We went through a lot together at Real Madrid, and I consider him a friend. If he keeps his mind clear, he will achieve great things. I hope he returns to the pitch soon."
Robinho believes this season will belong to the Rossoneri, aiming for a treble. "League or Champions League? I want them both, and even the Coppa Italia. This will be Milan's season," the bicycle boy said.
In 2009, Robinho was accused of raping a girl from Leeds, and the Brazilian stated that he learned a lot from the incident. "I've been declared innocent. In Brazil, you could settle things with money, but in England, if proven guilty, you would definitely go to jail. If it were true, I wouldn't be here. But this incident taught me a lot about life lessons," the Milan forward said.
Perhaps professing such love is a bit premature; Robinho has been with the team for less than half a season, and Milan's winter hasn't been so easy. However, the Brazilian enjoys life here and revealed that his second child will be born in Milan. "When I can play football, everything becomes easier. Football is my joy, and I thank Milan for letting me rediscover happiness," the bicycle boy said. "My wife is doing well here, and my second son will be born in a nice season, in March next year, but we haven't decided on his name yet."