Ruben Amorim: Milan's Alphadjo Cissè is ready for Italy call-up

Ruben Amorim, speaking before Milan’s match against Lazio, shared his assessment of young player Alphadjo Cissè. Amorim stated Cissè is ready for Italy's national team, though he believes it will take time to fully develop his potential. He's already observed differences in Cissè's performance between home and away games.

Cissè is a player who wants the ball. He is ready for the national team and must play freely in any context. However, I believe it will take time to see all of Cissè’s potential developed. I have already noticed, for example, a difference in his performance between home and away matches.

Milan drew 2-2 with Lazio. Diego Moreira scored twice in the second half to overturn Lazio’s first-half lead.

Cissè, 19, joined Amorim’s squad this summer. Milan signed him from Hellas Verona for €8 million in the winter transfer window, with him on loan at Catanzaro. He returned to Catanzaro for the rest of the 2025/26 season.

The midfielder has become a regular in Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 formation, playing as a wide No. 10. He has played in Milan’s first four Serie A games, scoring two goals.

Italy, under Roberto Mancini, begins its Nations League campaign in just over ten days. During the first international break, Italy will play Belgium, France, and Türkiye twice.

A new perspective

Cissè has impressed Amorim by featuring in every game. This is notable, especially for a player of his age.

Amorim previously struggled to get players to adapt to his system at Manchester United, particularly finding reliable young prospects.

The midfield roles in his 3-4-2-1 demand significant discipline and athleticism. Cissè's consistent appearances and goals demonstrate that Amorim has a promising young player he can rely on.

It remains to be seen if Cissè will be included in Mancini’s first Italy squad. Cissè currently plays for Italy U21 and has represented the country at U16, U18, and U19 levels. His senior debut is anticipated soon.

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Anshuman Joshi | GIFN