Former AC Milan and Bologna defender Cristian Zaccardo has backed Charles De Ketelaere to hit the ground running and offered thoughts on a couple of established stars.
Zaccardo spoke to MilanNews about the upcoming game at San Siro on Saturday night between the Rossoneri and Bologna, with Stefano Pioli’s men looking to return to winning ways after a 1-1 draw against Atalanta last Sunday night.
The former defender was asked attitude will Milan have to show in order to avoid the problems that led to the lacklustre 0-0 of last season against the Rossoblu, that was quite damaging in their Scudetto bid at the time.
“They will have to show that hunger and aggression that have been their proverbial characteristics in the Scudetto journey. Every game must be played to the death, Serie A teaches that the games won at the start do not exist. The Rossoneri will have to maintain their identity, this is the mandatory aspect,” he said.
There is a lot of excitement surrounding who is expected to get his first full start for the Rossoneri after his big money move (by Elliott Management’s standards) from Club Brugge.
“The Belgian has entered a healthy and enthusiastic environment. The conditions for a quick insertion are all there. Milan have focused a lot on him, it is useless to hide. So he will have to be good at exploiting the opportunities that will be given to him to prove his worth on the pitch,” Zaccardo said.
With seven days until the transfer window closes, there continues to be an abundance of rumours suggesting Milan are looking at making at least one more signing. Zaccardo believes that there might well be two.
“From what I see, I really believe that the management is looking for a central midfielder as a priority and, why not, also for a central defender. At least these are my impressions.”
Olivier Giroud was decisive in the 2021-22 Scudetto win as he was the joint-top scorer alongside Rafael Leao in the league, and Zaccardo thinks he is ready to be just as pivotal.
“The last season was very important, both in terms of goals and performance. Many expectations are placed on him, he is a player who knows how to be decisive.”
Finally, the Italian was asked whether Leao might stay at Milan for a long time or if his future might be elsewhere amid rumours Chelsea are keen.
“These are personal things between the player and the club which are difficult to discuss. Of course, Milan need great players and Leao has shown that he is.”
