AC Milan hat-trick hero Cisse puts team success first

The 19-year-old struck in the 15th, 32nd and 49th minutes at the Red Bull Arena, with Gonçalo Ramos adding Milan’s fourth late on. For Cisse, the achievement was a personal milestone, but he was keen to place the result ahead of individual recognition.

“I’m very happy with this hat-trick and this victory. I’m really satisfied. This is definitely a moment I’ll carry with me,” he told MilanNews after the match.

Asked whether the performance was a statement that he deserved a regular starting place, Cisse resisted being defined by a particular position.

“I wouldn’t say I have a role. I always try to give my best in whatever position I’m given. Whether it’s as a number nine or an attacking midfielder, I always try to give my best.”

His versatility has helped him take advantage of the opportunities provided by Ruben Amorim, who has publicly backed the young forward. Cisse believes that trust is important not only for him but for the wider generation of Italian talent hoping to make an impact.

“There are a lot of strong young Italian players. Many more will emerge very soon. We need the trust of our coaches, as Mister Amorim is showing with me and all the others.”

Cisse also credited his relationship with teammate Davide Bartesaghi, whose assist helped create one of the goals, and expressed confidence that fellow youngster Francesco Camarda would soon find the net.

“I’m sure the goal will come. He’s a really strong player. I have a good relationship with Barte and I’m happy he provided the assist.”

The record was something Cisse had been told about before speaking to reporters, although he insisted it would not define his evening.

“They told me beforehand. I’m happy. I’ll carry it with me; it’s a great memory. But it comes second.”

The forward admitted that few people would have predicted such a breakthrough at the start of the season. He believes his work has helped him earn his opportunity, rather than the hat-trick being a sudden stroke of luck.

“I think at the beginning of the year nobody would have expected this hat-trick and everything I’m doing now. But I’ve worked hard to get here, and if I’m here, it’s also thanks to that work.”

For AC Milan, Cisse’s performance offered more than a memorable individual record: it gave Amorim another attacking option and helped the club recover from its opening European defeat.