Peppe Di Stefano has shared his take on what AC Milan will need to do in the event of Champions League qualification. Spoiler alert: the Rossoneri have a lot of work to do.
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With 54 points collected after 25 games, Milan are sitting in second place in the league, seven points behind leaders Inter and four points ahead of third-placed Napoli. Champions League qualification is getting closer, as such, which was the main target for the season.
Of course, the Scudetto hope still lives at Milanello, but a super strong season finale will be needed from the team (while Inter will have to slip up). Nevertheless, finishing in the top four is what will help Milan restore some financial strength.
In our exclusive interview with Peppe Di Stefano, who is the Milan correspondent for Sky Italia, we asked what next season might look like with Champions League football. He made it clear that while there will be a financial boost, the requirements will be a lot higher.
UCL demands a lot
If Champions League football is secured, should we expect a more expansive and ambitious summer? If yes, which areas do you think Igli Tare and co. Will strengthen?
“If Milan qualify for the Champions League, they must improve their squad, first and foremost numerically. Next year, they’ll need at least 26-27 players, and you need higher-calibre alternatives.
“This year’s reserves have grown over time, like Jashari, Ricci, Bartesaghi, who has become a regular starter, and even De Winter himself. However, I believe that next year, Milan will need international talent like the Modrics, Rabiots, and Maignans.
“Milan would need a defender, like Akanji, and a midfielder like Goretzka, another player Allegri wanted. A revolution in attack wouldn’t surprise me, especially since I see difficulties renewing some contracts, like Pulisic’s, for example.
“I don’t see Leao’s permanence as a certainty, as he remains the team’s strongest player, but for Allegri – also due to his numerous injuries – he’s no longer the untouchable he was in previous seasons. Offers will be evaluated,” he stated.