Bellanova brands Theo ‘best left-back in the world’ and responds to idea of Milan return | OneFootball

Raoul Bellanova has called Theo Hernandez the best left-back in the world, while he also spoke about his past at AC Milan and the fact he is an Inter fan.

Milan’s 2024-25 Serie A season began in a dramatic way as they battled from two goals behind to draw 2-2 at San Siro against Torino on Saturday night, with Alvaro Morata and Noah Okafor coming off the bench to rescue a point.

Bellanova was a thorn in Milan’s side throughout the game and he had a big hand in the first goal as he rose above Alexis Saelemaekers to head across goal, and though it hit the far post Malick Thiaw was unable to stop it going in, even if it went down as an own-goal.

In truth Milan’s left side struggled to defend his marauding runs all night, and Bellanova spoke both to Sky and to the journalists who attended his post-match press conference after the 2-2 draw at San Siro, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.

Are you disappointed or is it an important point?

“I think there should be a bit of disappointment in each of us. Every little mistake against this team can ruin everything. We came to San Siro to play with Milan.”

Have you connected well with Paolo Vanoli?

“The coach immediately understood the qualities of the team, we have a midfield of great ball handlers and by holding the ball you can create more opportunities. I knew I had to help tonight especially in the defensive phase, I still have to work on that.”

Does working with the national team help you?

“The experience in the national team makes you understand how much responsibility there is in wearing that shirt. Then I try to give my best for Torino, because it is thanks to Torino that I go to the national team.”

How do did you feel when – two hours before the match – you found out that you would not be playing against someone like Theo?

“Theo is the best left-back in the world today. Playing against him is very stimulating. Then you don’t feel bad when you see that he’s not on your side because he’s not playing (laughs)… Then Milan is full of champions, so you always have to give 100%.”

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Do you think about returning to Milan one day?

“Playing here is everyone’s dream. Now I’m focused on Torino.”

How do you assess the game and letting a two-goal lead slip?

“We knew we had to play a game of great sacrifice, at San Siro it’s always very difficult. When you play against these champions, two lapses in concentration are enough to concede two goals, mine was scored as an own goal, but I’m still happy to have helped. It’s a shame because we could have brought home two more points.”

You faced the team you were at as a youngster…

“I support Inter, but I will always thank Milan because without them I would never have arrived in the football that counts. They made me grow a lot as a person and as a footballer. Playing on this pitch is always a great emotion for me.”