Andriy Shevchenko is expecting a fascinating game between two of his former clubs as AC Milan take on Chelsea in the Champions League on Wednesday night.
Shevchenko was at Milan from 1999 to 2006 before he left to join Chelsea, though his time in London did not go as planned and he did end up returning to the Rossoneri on loan. He spoke about the upcoming game between the sides on Milan TV, with his comments relayed by SempreMilan.it.
“Milan play good football, they are confident, play at high intensity and manage games. They have quality players who can make a difference. Milan play modern football that people like so much, they play in attack but they also know how to manage all situations well during matches,” he said.
On playing against Chelsea for Milan in 1999-00: “It was a very intense game, the English sides are tough. We drew 0-0. This Chelsea-Milan will be different, the two current teams are different from those two. Milan have raised their level: I expect a good match, an intense and high-level match.
“There will be a very intense atmosphere. Chelsea need to win and will raise the pace a lot, but Milan have quality players. It will be a special match for Giroud who played for Chelsea, he is doing very well: he will be the centre of this match.
“He [Giroud] is a very good person. He is a striker who knows where to go to score, he has a great sense for goals. He is elegant, he still has a lot to give to Milan. Having someone like him on the team helps a lot. It will be a special match for him against Chelsea.
On Leao: “Leao is becoming a leader. In London he will have the opportunity to see his great qualities also in the Champions League, which is a different competition from the Italian league. Leao is a great talent who can make a difference even in these matches.”