AC Milan Beat Barcelona to Senegalese Talent El Hadji Malick Cissé

Senegalese defender El Hadji Malick Cissé chose to join AC Milan despite heavy interest from FC Barcelona. According to Mansour Dramé, director of Be Sport Academy where the 18-year-old was developed, the player's parents opted for the Italian club after being convinced by their long-term sporting plan.

AC Milan presented a clearer and quicker pathway for Cissé to transition into the first team. The young center-back is currently a regular starter for the Rossoneri's reserve side, Milan Futuro, as he continues his development toward senior European football.