By Martin Graham
Few people realise that Fikayo Tomori carries 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 phrases are shortened into given names. Oluwafikayomi translates as “God has filled me with joy”, while Oluwadamilola means “God has filled me with wealth”.
Joy is certainly present this campaign at AC Milan. Guided 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 term is striking: Milan lost 11 league matches and finished eighth, their lowest position in a decade. This time, defeat has come only once so far.
“We came back in the summer with something to prove, both as individuals and as a group,” Tomori explains. “The aim was to attack the season and return to the Champions League.”
Allegri’s system and a settled life in Milan
Now 28, Tomori feels stronger than ever. Allegri’s use of a back three has played a major role in that improvement, giving the defender clarity and confidence in his positioning.
“Physically, this is the best I’ve felt,” he says. “Knowing exactly where I need to be helps a lot with reading situations. As a defender, you don’t need to push too far out of position. It’s about being clever with your movement.”
Almost six years have passed since Tomori left Chelsea, where he was developed, to secure regular football abroad. Growing up as an Arsenal supporter, his decision to move was about consistency. “I wanted to stabilise my career,” he says.
Since then, he has made 194 appearances for Milan, learned Italian fluently, and fully embraced daily life in the country. Even the accent has become second nature. “If I don’t use it, people don’t understand,” he laughs.
Training has also been a change. In Italy, sessions are heavily 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.
Legacy, England ambitions and Tuchel’s message
At Milanello, images of past icons line the walls. Paolo Maldini, who personally spoke 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, you understand the weight of the shirt and what’s demanded.”
Winning Serie A again would not only matter for Milan but also for Tomori’s international hopes. A title could strengthen his case for a place in England’s World Cup squad.
Born in Canada, Tomori represented their Under-19s and says he was never approached by Nigeria. He earned five England caps under Gareth Southgate after debuting in 2019, though his last appearance came more than two years ago.
Despite that, current England manager Thomas Tuchel keeps in contact. The two have spoken several times, most recently after the November international break. “The message is to keep going,” Tomori says. “There’s still a lot of football before the World Cup.”
Tuchel follows Milan closely, having called up Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and regularly reviews data and match clips. Tomori understands the competition, with players such as John Stones, Marc Guehi, Dan Burn, and Ezri Konsa all options in defence, but the ambition remains clear.
Adding to his 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. “You just listen and watch how he trains,” he says. “When Modric speaks, you pay attention.”