On the eve of the Derby della Madonnina, Massimiliano Allegri answered the questions from the media at his press conference at Milanello.
Even if the date was only fully confirmed a few weeks ago, Sunday the 8th has been earmarked in many people’s calendars as the day of the Derby della Madonnina. While it could have been an even more exciting game from a standings point of view, the derby is always special.
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As such, Milan will be looking to do the double over their rivals tomorrow, which would also help them avoid a 13-point gap with just ten games left of the season. Speaking at the presser just a few minutes ago (via MilanNews), Allegri shared his thoughts on the big clash.
It’s often said that the derby is a story in itself…
“The derby is always a unique and special match that is a joy to play and experience. It will certainly be a wonderful evening of sport, with first and second place facing off. The three points count for the derby, and they count for next Sunday.
“It won’t be easy to get points tomorrow; we are facing a strong side that have won almost all of their games, drawing one and losing four. We will try to get a result, which is the only thing that matters.”
Are fans allowed to dream? How’s the team doing?
“Tomorrow night, the only thing to do is play and experience the game, then we will see how it ends. After the match, we will see if we are still 10 points behind, down 7, or down 13. Regardless of tomorrow, we have to be clear about our objective: 57 points aren’t enough for the Champions League.
“The teams behind us are picking up points, and we have a tough schedule: Inter, Juve, Napoli, Lazio, and Atalanta. We still need several wins.
“As for the injuries, all are doing well except for Loftus and Gabbia, and Gimenez, who isn’t with the team yet but will be soon. Bartesaghi trained yesterday, and tomorrow I will decide whether he or Estupinan will play. Estupinan is doing very well, like everyone else.”
The dangers of tomorrow…
“Inter are scoring goals in many ways. They are good long-range shooters, they close down crosses well, and they are physically strong in the box. It depends on who plays tomorrow and whether Dumfries plays. They have many ways to score. We have the important qualities to be able to play a good game and score against Inter.”
On your future…
“I’m tied to Milan with a contract until 2027. The future is tomorrow, then the Sunday after that. I’m happy at Milan, I’m very happy. We started a project in July, the club is working towards the future. But until we reach that goal, we have to focus on the present. We haven’t achieved anything yet; Milan must return to playing in the Champions League.”
Leao said it’s a game of life or death…
“As for Rafa’s comments, he was speaking in football terms. They should be accepted. We give too much weight to words. As for Inter, they are a team that have been fighting for the top two spots in the league for six years.
“Right now, they are the best in the league. They have highly experienced, technically and physically strong players. They have Esposito, a very strong and talented young man. They are the strongest team in the league right now.”
Do you expect Inter to be more closed off and focus on Milan’s game?
“I don’t know what kind of match they have prepared for, but we prepared knowing it will be a good, evenly matched game. We need to pay attention to the details. They are a really dangerous team in the final 30 meters.”
Is it just my impression, or has the famous 10-day stop between Bologna and Pisa deflated the energy a bit instead of recharging it?
“We will see if we can get back to our best form tomorrow night and the next 10. Pulisic and Leao are improving in condition, Estupinan is also growing mentally. Motivation makes the difference, it’s not a physical issue.
“Those who are more motivated manage to get results. Fullkrug spent a month with a broken finger, poor thing; he made himself available in pain and is doing better too. Rabiot’s suspension has stopped him, but he’s regaining his fitness. Jashari is improving.”
Do you believe the race for the Scudetto is still open?
“In football, you never know what can happen. For now, we will play tomorrow and then we will see. We need five wins for the Champions League. We have to work game by game, trying to get a result, which is the most important thing.”
What message does Cardinale’s continued presence send you?
“We are very pleased. He has been here twice in the last month. He’s coming to the stadium tomorrow. He and his partners all have a huge interest in building a great AC Milan. It’s right that they are very close to the club, as they are, and we are all happy.”
Will Inter change without Lautaro?
“Lautaro is a great player, but Inter have a great attacking roster like us. Regardless of who plays tomorrow, you need technique, heart, and passion. All the components to play such an important match.”
You are facing tomorrow with a lack of defenders…
“We made some assessments with the club. There weren’t any defenders who could improve the team, which I’m very happy about. Gabbia will be available again within a month. Odogu is growing a lot and will be available if needed.”
Do you know André from Corinthians?
“The news that’s been written and said has only done us good. We haven’t focused too much energy on the derby. We hope to arrive with a fresh head and play a good match against a strong team. Tomorrow, when the referee blows his whistle, we need to run.
“André? Right now, let’s not talk about the transfer market… We all need to be focused on the Champions League objective. It’s right for the club to think about the future, but right now, we can’t waste our energy on other things.”
Is this a start to be competitive next season?
“The only method I know is to work calmly, organising everyone, respecting the club’s DNA. After you have given your all, you start working to improve. I was lucky enough to return to AC Milan; I found a team with excellent players.”
Will Inter be more motivated tomorrow?
“We have a huge responsibility and we have a goal to achieve. Napoli is one point behind us… Tomorrow we play against the top team, and we are currently second. Whatever happens tomorrow, we will remain second. We have to play a good game with great enthusiasm.”
Rabiot, Modric, and Fofana have cemented themselves as Milan’s midfield. Will tomorrow’s match be won there?
“I don’t know how you win tomorrow’s match; games are full of unexpected events. We have a very strong midfield, with those three but also with Ricci, who has improved a lot. Jashari is a player who unfortunately got injured this year… But I think a year like this can only do him good for his future at Milan.”
How’s Pulisic? He has been without a goal for two months…
“Pulisic is doing much better, he will be a very important player for the end of the season. Nkunku is doing well, Fullkrug is doing well. The front four are improving their condition. The team is doing well, the important thing is to stay in the right rhythm to play tomorrow’s match.”
