Milan Youth Sensation Emanuele Sala Names Modric and Tonali as Idols, Sets Sights on U19 Euro Glory

FolioPitch.com – 01 July 2026 | AC Milan academy prospect Emanuele Sala has opened up about his footballing inspirations and ambitions in a revealing interview, as the young midfielder prepares for the U19 European Championship. The Milan starlet Sala reveals idolisation of Modric and Tonali plus U19 Euros trophy dream, offering a glimpse into the mindset of one of Italy’s brightest prospects.

Sala, who recently impressed in Italy U19‘s victory over Serbia, spoke to the FIGC’s official channels about his journey from a toddler kicking a ball to representing his country on the international stage. The 18-year-old has been a standout performer for Milan Futuro, scoring four goals and providing three assists in Serie D last season.

Early Beginnings and Milan Academy

Born with a passion for football, Sala recalls his first steps in the sport. ‘My passion was born when I was just four or five months old. I would already go to the fields to watch my brother play. From then on, it was a unique and immense love,’ he said. He started playing at local club Cimiano at age four, before joining AC Milan’s academy the following year—a decision he has never looked back on.

Now, as he captains Italy’s midfield at the U19 Euros, the Milan starlet Sala reveals idolisation of Modric and Tonali plus U19 Euros trophy dream that fuels his daily drive. ‘I take inspiration from Andrés Iniesta. At the club I watch Luka Modrić and for the national team, Sandro Tonali,’ Sala explained, citing two midfield maestros who have left an indelible mark on the game.

Role Models on the Pitch

Modric, the Real Madrid and Croatia legend, is known for his elegance and vision—qualities Sala hopes to emulate. Tonali, a former Milan star now at Newcastle United, represents the modern Italian midfielder with grit and technical ability. By naming these two, Sala shows a mature understanding of the game, blending artistry with hard work.

The Milan starlet Sala reveals idolisation of Modric and Tonali plus U19 Euros trophy dream in a natural way that resonates with fans. He added, ‘Wearing the national team shirt is an indescribable feeling. It’s an honour to be able to realise my dream representing my country.’

U19 Euros Ambitions

With Italy U19 currently competing in the European Championship, Sala has set clear targets. ‘I have many goals, but as a team, I want to try to win this European Championship. Personally, I want to improve day by day,’ he stated. His performance against Serbia—winning six of nine duels, three of four tackles, and making six defensive contributions—underscores his commitment to the team’s cause.

Alongside fellow talents Christian Comotto and former Milan starlet Mattia Liberali, Sala forms a promising midfield trio. Liberali, sought after by both Como and Milan, could potentially reunite with Sala in the Rossoneri first team in the future. For now, the focus remains on the U19 Euros, where Sala aims to write his name into the history books.

Conclusion

Emanuele Sala represents the next generation of Italian midfielders, blending technical skill with a tactical understanding beyond his years. The Milan starlet Sala reveals idolisation of Modric and Tonali plus U19 Euros trophy dream, and his journey from the Milan academy to the international stage serves as an inspiration. With his eyes set on European glory, Sala is a name to watch—not just for AC Milan fans, but for all lovers of football.