AC Milan signed Asmir Begović on loan from AFC Bournemouth in the January 2020 winter market after allowing Pepe Reina to join Aston Villa on a temporary deal in the same window.
Begović made only two appearances for Milan as he was signed as a backup for Gianluigi Donnarumma, the Rossoneri’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Despite the limited opportunities, the 33-year-old told Calciomercato.it he enjoyed his short spell in Italy.
“Milan is one of the biggest clubs in the world, and it is a privilege to be part of it, to live and breathe the tradition and respect that this club has,” he said.
“I was hired by Milan to help the younger players with my experience on and off the pitch and I think we did some good things together, important things for the future of the club.”
Begović was open to the idea of extending his stay at Milan, but it was not entertained by the English club.
“I had a contract with Bournemouth who decided they needed me for this season. I liked Milan and the prospect of staying there, but this is the life of a professional footballer and we have to live with it,” the ex-Chelsea man explained.
Begović is Bournemouth’s first choice keeper and has started in 36 league matches this term. His contract expires at the end of this season and he has expressed his desire to play again in Serie A.
“For now, I’m focused on doing my best with Bournemouth, we’ll see what happens next,” the keeper added.
“As I said, it’s no secret that I would have liked to continue playing for Milan, and I love Italy and Italian football. I love Italian football and Serie A is a challenge for every player, so I wouldn’t rule out anything. Everything is possible.”
