PERTH, AUSTRALIA – AUGUST 5: AC Milan’s Alfacio Cisse passes the ball during the preseason match between AC Milan and Inter Milan at Optus Stadium on August 5, 2026 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by Janelle St. Pierre/Getty Images)
Alfacio Cisse insists playing at Milan “helped me grow” and that Italy’s Under-21 squad are stronger because “we build real bonds between our team-mates”.
The teenager, who turns 20 next month, has impressed at the San Siro so far this season, scoring two goals in four Serie A games.
He arrived in the summer and impressed head coach Ruben Amorim in pre-season enough to warrant a place in the senior squad.
The striker now hopes to take that form and confidence with him to the Italy Under-21 side, where he will make his debut in November 2025.
Cisse enjoys form in Milan and Italy
“I’m happy with how things are going, but I’m trying to put my emotions aside so I can fully focus and do my best.” Cisse said at a press conference.
“Playing for Milan has really helped me grow and I hope to take everything I’ve learned into the international game as well. The team here is special and you really feel like you’re at home. We spend a lot of time together and we build a real bond between the players and then it shows on the pitch.”
Italy are currently second in European Under-21 Championship qualifying but travel to Armenia on Thursday before going head-to-head with Poland on October 5.
“We have to win, there are no two ways about it, and keep chasing qualification. The fact that we can achieve this in front of our own fans in Pescara must be further motivation,” Cisse continued.
“We’re keen to play in front of our supporters and hope many people will enjoy the game with us.”
In preparation for these two games, the Italian under-21 youth team defeated the Empoli youth team 15-0 with Cisse’s hat trick.
There will be another friendly match tomorrow against the Spezia youth team.