'It’s normal the fans are upset' - Calhanoglu justifies Milan-Inter swap

The Turkey international’s decision to jump ships between two bitter rivals provoked indignation among some fans.

Hakan Calhanoglu has explained his decision to swap Inter Milan for AC Milan, admitting that “it’s normal the fans are upset” due to his transfer.

Unable to get the club to agree to his wage demands, Calhanoglu opted against putting pen to paper on fresh terms at Milan.

The attacking midfielder, who first arrived at San Siro from Bayer Leverkusen back in 2017, then joined Inter last month on a €5 million-a-year contract that also includes €1 million in bonuses.

“It’s normal the fans are upset, but I am not the first to do this and I won’t be the last, as many players have gone from Milan to Inter, or vice-versa,” Calhanoglu told DAZN.

“I just wanted to look to my future, with all due respect to Milan. I did a lot for Milan over four years, I respected everyone, but I have a new chapter at Inter and have to look forward now.

“Pioli was the only one who really wanted me at Milan. I spoke to him many times, but he respected my decision and wished me all the best.”

“It did happen very quickly, I received a lot of calls from director Piero Ausilio and coach Simone Inzaghi. If people show they want you in their team, that makes you want to go there.”