The former AC Milan and Tottenham goalkeeper Carlo Cudicini has spoken to the media about the upcoming clash between the two teams. Despite the recent struggles of both sides, he expects it to be a good battle.
Milan will host Tottenham at San Siro on Tuesday for the first leg of the Champions League Round of 16. After seven games without a win, they managed to beat Torino 1-0 on Friday, while Tottenham lost 1-4 to Leicester this weekend.
Speaking to MilanTV, as cited by MilanNews, Cudicini was asked about his time at Milan as well as Spurs. He started his career with the former and made two appearances in the Champions League for the Rossoneri.
Do you remember your debut with the Rossoneri?
“I had the opportunity to be part of Milan’s first team for almost 6 months. Being a huge Rossoneri fan, it was an incredible feeling for me. I made my debut in the Champions League, playing 90 minutes at San Siro. I tried to be as calm as possible, even if it wasn’t easy.”
On Tottenham…
“Tottenham is a special club because they could potentially compete at a very high level every season. They have a wonderful stadium, a wonderful training centre, fans who have been waiting for so many years to celebrate some trophies. Everything is there, but something is missing.
“I’m convinced that with Conte, the goal of winning a trophy can be reached. He did a great job last year. This year, after a more than positive start, they have had some ups and downs.”
What Conte do you expect?
“All of Conte’s teams are difficult, they work a lot and are well placed on the field and are always dangerous.”
You returned to San Siro for the Milan-Tottenham match in 2011…
“They will be two different games. Redknapp’s Tottenham based the team on individuals, while Conte prepare them in a different way and with a different form. For me, it’s a pleasant memory because I returned to San Siro. When you hear the Champions League anthem, you get the shivers and you get excited. I hope, as a Milan fan, that this effect can also be felt on Tuesday.”
It remains to be seen how the game will pan out but it’s already certain that it won’t be an easy game for Milan. While the 1-0 win against Torino is a huge confidence boost, there is still a lot that needs to be worked out.