Ahead of Milan’s vital fixture against Atalanta at the Stadio Olimpico, sporting director Frederic Massara spoke to the media about Milan’s recent form and addressed several concerns.
As it stands, the Rossonerri currently sit in fourth place, on level term with Roma and three points adrift from cross-city rivals Inter. Since their horrendous run of form the month prior where they only managed to win a single match in six fixtures across all competitions, Pioli’s men have managed to diverge from their rough patch of form and return to winning ways.
Heading into the significant league fixture, Milan are coming off a three-game winning streak, including their impressive 1-0 win over Premier League outfits Tottenham within the first leg of the Round 16 of the Champions League.
However, with Rafael Leao having yet to have agreed to an extension with Milan as he is set for renewal in the summer of 2024, as well as Charles De Ketelaere’s difficult adaptation as he has yet to have scored a single goal for Milan since arriving from Brugge over the summer, question marks and eyebrows have been raised, causing Pioli and the club to face a great deal of scrutiny within the media.
While speaking to DAZN Italia, Massarra provided his point of view regarding the match against Atalanta, Milan’s season thus far, as well as several worries that the fans sense regarding the club:
How important is this game?
“A very difficult match, against an Atalanta team that is always difficult to face. It is a direct match for the Champions League and we will have to provide a high-level performance to get over it.”
With this module, will you be able to dominate the game again like last year?
“I don’t think the period of difficulty depended on the formation. By regaining compactness and defensive solidity, we will probably be able to free up our qualities up front also because we will feel more covered thanks to some expedients”.
Any regrets about the summer transfer market in hindsight?
“With hindsight, many assessments can be rethought. We are still happy: we have tried to build a present and future heritage. Many have needed time and some have already passed the acclimatization period”.
Why should De Ketelaere still be trusted?
“He’s a strong and talented footballer. We see him grow every day and, it should be remembered, a Milan champion of Italy has arrived with very high expectations. It takes time.”
Any news on Leao?
“We want to try to find a solution, for Leao and Giroud as we have done for many others. We hope it will arrive quickly”.
Julian Faustini Ι GIFN
