GdS: Prestige, a big cash boost and the Europa League – Coppa Italia vital for Milan

By Oliver Fisher -

Progressing into the final and possibly winning the Coppa Italia could become absolutely vital for AC Milan’s plans, a report claims.

Next Friday the Rossoneri will travel to the Allianz Stadium to face Juventus in the Coppa Italia semi-final second leg knowing they must score at least once, having drawn the first leg 1-1 at San Siro and with away goals in effect.

There are plenty of selection problems for Stefano Pioli who will be without suspended trio Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Theo Hernandez and Samu Castillejo as well as injured defender Leo Duarte.

As La Gazzetta dello Sport notes on Wednesday (via MilanNews), there are a couple of key reasons why the cup is very important for the Rossoneri.

Firstly, winning the trophy would allow Milan to qualify directly for the Europa League group stages. Securing a pass for the final will not be easy, also because Milan have never won at the Allianz Stadium, but it is not impossible especially given the time that has passed since the last competitive game for both sides.

In addition, a Coppa Italia triumph would have economics boosts too: the prize money for winning the tournament is €20m, which would be a big boost to the club’s coffers ahead of an important summer transfer window.

Finally, the club have not won the trophy in 17 years (2002-03 season) despite having been in the final twice in the last four seasons. A major honour would bring back some much-needed prestige.

 

Tags AC Milan
Serie A Standings

Live football scores . Current table, fixtures & results.