Gian Piero Gasperini has been very complimentary of AC Milan’s project in the build-up to the game between the Rossoneri and his side Atalanta.
In many ways there are a lot of similarities between the way Milan and Atalanta operate on and off the field, albeit with different expectations after the Scudetto win in 2021-22 for the Diavolo.
Both teams focus on quite an intense playing style that involves high pressing and moving quickly through the thirds after winning possession, while off the field there are similarities in recruitment with both managements putting faith in young players identified and analysis by the scouting department.
The Lombardy neighbours will renew hostilities at the Gewiss Stadium tonight, and Gasperini spoke at his pre-match press conference ahead of the game (via 90min) during which he praised the way Milan are run.
What does it mean to face the Italian champions?
“It’s difficult, the calendar proposed this, it’s okay. It’s nice that there is this challenge right away, then we know the strength of the team, it can be an opportunity for everyone.”
What kind of a season will it be?
“It will take at least ten matches. Milan today are a model, they have been able to take on young talents, they are a model on and off the pitch. For me, they represent the true model to follow. Pioli? I expressed myself earlier, they have an attacking game, they score a lot of goals, they deserved to win the title even though Inter were so close.”
Could there be an indication of what the season target will be based on the game?
“It seems excessive to me to consider it a direct clash. It is a high profile match, but Atalanta’s targets do not depend on tomorrow’s match. We will certainly do everything to play our best match. It is not a direct match, Milan are fighting for the Scudetto.”
Is Pioli one of the candidates for the golden bench?
“It will certainly be more than deserved, he is definitely the main candidate.”
Just buttering us up