By Martin Graham
Few people realize this Fikayo Tomori goes by a much longer name: Oluwafikayomi Oluwadamilola Tomori. In Milan, as throughout his career, everyone simply calls him “Fik”.
The meaning behind his name reflects his background. His parents are Nigerian, and the names come from their tribes, where longer sentences are shortened into first names. Oluwafikayomi translates as “God has filled me with joy” while Oluwadamilola means “God has filled me with wealth”.
Joy is certainly present in this campaign AC Milan. Led by Massimiliano Allegri, the Rossoneri sit second in Serie A, just one point behind Inter, and are firmly chasing a first league title since the 2021-22 season.
That success three years ago ended an 11-year wait for the Scudetto. The contrast with last season is striking: Milan lost 11 league games and finished eighth, their lowest position in a decade. This time, defeat has only come once so far.
“We came back in the summer with something to prove, both as individuals and as a group,” explains Tomori. “The goal was to attack the season and return to the Champions League.”
Allegri’s system and a life settled in Milan
Now, at 28, Tomori feels stronger than ever. Allegri’s use of a back three has played an important role in this improvement, giving the defender clarity and confidence in his positioning.
“Physically, this is the best I’ve ever heard,” he says. “Knowing exactly where I need to be helps a lot with read situations. As a defender, you don’t have to lose your position too much. It’s all about being smart with your movement.”
It has been almost six years since Tomori left Chelsea, where he developed, to secure regular football abroad. Growing up as an Arsenal supporter, his decision to move was a matter of consistency. “I wanted to stabilize my career,” he says.
Since then, he has made 194 appearances for Milan, learned Italian fluently and fully embraced everyday life in the country. Even the accent has become second nature. “If I don’t use it, people don’t understand,” he laughs.
The training has also been a change. In Italy, the sessions are very focused on tactical preparation, while in England the emphasis can be more physical. Tomori believes the growing number of English players abroad shows how adaptable they have become.
England’s legacy, ambitions and Tuchel’s message
At Milanello, images of icons from the past line the walls. Paolo Maldini, who spoke personally to Tomori before his arrival, played a key role in bringing him to the club. The presence of legends such as Maldini, Franco Baresi, Kaka, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Alessandro Nesta is a constant reminder of expectations.
“You feel it every day,” Tomori says. “From the fans in the city to the history in the building, he understands the weight of the shirt and what is required.”
Winning Serie A again would not only matter for Milan, but also for Tomori’s international hopes. A title could strengthen their case for a place in England’s World Cup squad.
Born in Canada, Tomori represented his Under-19s and says Nigeria never approached him. He won five England caps under Gareth Southgate after making his debut in 2019, although his last appearance was more than two years ago.
Despite this, current England manager Thomas Tuchel remains in touch. The two have spoken several times, most recently after the international break in November. “The message is to keep going,” says Tomori. “There is still a lot of football left before the World Cup.”
Tuchel follows Milan closely, having called Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and regularly reviews match data and clips. Tomori understands the competition, with the likes of John Stones, Marc Guehi, Dan Burn and Ezri Konsa all options in defence, but the ambition remains clear.
Adding to their unique surroundings, Luka Modric, who joined Milan in the summer, lives in the same apartment complex. Tomori prefers to observe rather than question the former Ballon d’Or winner. “Just listen and watch him train,” he says. “When Modric speaks, you pay attention.”
