The former AC Milan man Khakha Kaladze was interviewed by Gazzetta dello Sport and spoke about the Rossoneri at great length. From the current struggles to the upcoming summer mercato, the 46-year-old shared his thoughts.
Kaladze played for Milan between 2001 and 2010, racking up 284 appearances, and he won seven trophies with the Rossoneri. He certainly knows a thing or two about the club, in other words, and especially how to perform at the highest level.
Interviewed by Gazzetta dello Sport for this morning’s edition, as cited by MilanPress, Kaladze shared his thoughts on the current Milan side. He also spoke about the upcoming summer transfer window, stating that the Rossoneri need ‘targeted signings’.
On watching Milan today…
“Of course, I always see Milan when I can. Everyone knows what those colours represent: Milan is life. It’s hard to describe the current moment, it’s difficult to understand from the outside. Many changes at all levels, but perhaps the machine hasn’t yet settled and the team is not at the level of the great ones of the past. If Milan want to slowly rebuild and aim for the best, new targeted purchases are needed in all departments.”
On European commitments…
“ The main thing is to remain among the top four and ensure continuity in qualifying for the Champions League: there is no stopping us from there. Then why not go for it in the Europa League too? Although there are two very strong opponents for the trophy: Bayer Leverkusen are amazing and then Liverpool will want to say goodbye to Klopp by winning everything.”
The Europa League must save the season…
“In 2007 Europe – even if that was the Champions League – saved our season, so I say yes. But, regardless of any result, a lot of work is needed to recreate a strong club and recover the ground that separates it from Inter. It’s the mission of the directors, starting with Ibra.”
Pioli’s cycle…
“All cycles have an end, but I consider Pioli a very good manager. He must have a Milan team with him and not be left alone in moments of difficulty.”
Holding Theo back…
“More than important, he’s decisive: he has drive, assists, goals, everything you ask of a modern full-back. And then paired with Leao it’s a death trap. We must start from this couple that few other teams in Europe have.”
Absence of leadership…
“That cannot be bought on the market, neither in football nor in politics. You can’t ask someone who has just arrived to play the leading role that Ibra could have had before. Of course, if I think back to my time, when at Milanello I found myself facing Maldini, Costacurta or Gattuso, I understand that that level of charisma is no longer achievable. But, in addition to being full of champions, we were a group of brothers: it’s that atmosphere that you need to look for to win again.”
The next striker…
“First of all, we have to thank Giroud for everything he did: he hasn’t been in an easy position but he has been an example. Then, not being able to afford Haaland, I would look for a Shevchenko-esque signing. An already strong player, but with a lot of potential. To be paid the right amount and to be developed at home by building the offensive game around him.”
Advice to Kvaratskhelia…
“I would soon like to see him in a top team, a team capable of winning the Champions League because that is his level. He’s worthy of Real Madrid or Milan. Here, perhaps Milan could sign him…”
It remains to be seen if Kaladze will see his compatriot in the red and black shirt, although it seems very unlikely for the time being. It is clear that Milan will make some important signings in the summer, though, with the defence being a priority.
EXACTLY. Listen to the man.
NO MORE MONEYBALL MONCADA SIGNINGS
yeah go spend 220m on Enzo and Caicedo like Chelsea, that would be brilliant
Chelsea didn’t make good signing there, we all agree on that. Spending 220m on those two was a big mistake. Look around and see what quality player you can get for that kind of money. I would rather pay 100m for two quality player then on 5 or 6 average player.
Chelsea last 15 years trophy?
if you truly love something you don’t dare to spend/ sacrifice even break the rule once or twice to be superior in next couple of years,
if it’s just talk or being media Rambo, isn’t love is fraud
i’m with KhaKa even some “true fans” will say “are you just woke-up from your sleep in 2010?” i don’t care.
it was time where i fight the interista & juventini when they told me Milan is mediocre, but now those people claim to be “more Milanista” than me and push me to accept/ act that my Milan is little club.
the true fans even think they are more Milanista than Maldini, Billy, Kaka, Sheva, Kaladze…
do you know who they are & what they done for Milan? & what yours except cheering??