Justin Kluivert: Bournemouth Ready to Compete Against the Best as Milan History and Turning Point Fuel Ambition

FolioPitch.com – 22 October 2026 | Justin Kluivert has declared that Bournemouth are ready to compete against the best Kluivert speaks about Milan history Bournemouth s growth and turning point as the Cherries prepare to host AC Milan in a historic Europa League clash at the Vitality Stadium. The Dutch winger, son of former Milan striker Patrick Kluivert, addressed the media ahead of a match that represents the pinnacle of Bournemouth’s remarkable rise from League Two to the European stage.

Kluivert, who has recently returned to full fitness, spoke candidly about the significance of the occasion for a club that was fighting relegation in the fourth tier just two decades ago. “It’s going to be a fantastic match against an opponent who’s doing very well this season and has a great history,” he said. “I’m sure the fans are looking forward to this match with great anticipation.” The fixture is a testament to Bournemouth’s growth, and Kluivert’s words underlined just how far the club has come.

A Turning Point in the Locker Room

Reflecting on the season’s early struggles, Kluivert identified a pivotal moment that has since propelled the team forward. “We were a bit unlucky at the start of the season,” he explained. “We had played some good games, then the one against Chelsea was a poor performance for us. I’d call it a small wake-up call, and our reaction afterwards was excellent.” That turning point, according to Kluivert, has instilled a renewed belief within the squad, and it is a key part of the narrative as Bournemouth compete against the best Kluivert speaks about Milan history Bournemouth s growth and turning point in Europe.

The 25-year-old also touched on the historical connection between the two clubs, noting that Bournemouth’s red and black stripes were inspired by Milan in the 1970s. “We haven’t talked about it, but it’s really nice to know!” he smiled. “Tomorrow will be a real battle of the Rossoneri shirts.” For Kluivert, facing the club where his father spent a season carries extra meaning. “The time he spent there has remained in his heart,” he said. “He always speaks with immense love about AC Milan, and I can completely understand that.”

Family Ties and Footballing Passion

Kluivert elaborated on his father’s experience in Italy, highlighting the intense passion of the Milanisti. “He told me that it’s all about passion there, especially in Italy. People live football viscerally; for them, football is everything. If you do well, they treat you like a king… but if things go badly, you’re the worst of all.” Despite the pressure, Kluivert sees it as a beautiful aspect of the game, one that adds spice to the upcoming encounter.

The winger also named some of the Milan legends he admired growing up, including Franco Baresi, Alessandro Costacurta, Mario Balotelli, and Clarence Seedorf. “AC Milan has seen so many extraordinary champions pass through,” he said. “I could name an endless list.”

Bournemouth’s Ambition and Europa League Form

When asked about Bournemouth’s superior performances in the Europa League compared to the Premier League, Kluivert pointed to the relentless physicality of England’s top flight. “The Premier League is the highest level in the world, 100%,” he stated. “But we’ve played some excellent games. The only game we really failed to achieve was against Chelsea, but the reaction afterwards was excellent.” He believes that the team’s togetherness and quality can carry them deep into the competition. “I firmly believe we can do it if we stick together as a group. I have no doubt about that.”

Kluivert’s return to fitness comes at a crucial time, with crucial fixtures against Milan and Manchester United on the horizon. “These are the games everyone wants to play in and where you want to prove your worth,” he said. “You don’t even need any special motivation.” He also recalled his first Europa League final with Ajax, a defeat to United, as a source of inspiration. “It’s an extraordinary feeling, and I know how special that moment is. It’s something I really want to achieve with Bournemouth this year too.”

A Symbol of Growth

The match itself is a symbol of Bournemouth’s ambition, and Kluivert believes it is a chance to demonstrate the club’s progress on the pitch. “One of the reasons I came here is precisely the ambition the club has shown. Not just in words, but also in deeds,” he said. “Tomorrow will be a night where people will enjoy themselves and say, ‘We’re playing against AC Milan!’” He added that the squad’s mentality is their greatest strength: “We believe that, no matter who we’re playing against, we can play our game and win against anyone.”

As Bournemouth prepare to compete against the best Kluivert speaks about Milan history Bournemouth s growth and turning point, the focus is squarely on making history. Kluivert’s personal target is clear: “I want to be decisive for the team, and that means scoring goals, sacrificing myself on the pitch, and playing with incredible intensity. Let’s try to score three – why not!” With the Vitality Stadium set for a special night, Bournemouth’s journey from the lower leagues to facing European royalty is a story worth telling, and Kluivert is determined to ensure it has a happy ending.

In conclusion, Justin Kluivert’s pre-match comments capture the essence of Bournemouth’s meteoric rise and the turning point that has galvanised their season. As they compete against the best Kluivert speaks about Milan history Bournemouth s growth and turning point, the Cherries are not merely participants but genuine contenders, ready to showcase their growth on the European stage. For Kluivert and his teammates, this is more than a game; it is a statement of intent.