Franco Baresi, former defender and honorary vice-president of Milan, underlined the club’s expectations after their Europa League knockout play-off draw with Stade Rennais.
The Rossoneri finished third in their Champions League group behind Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain, a result that saw them drop down to the Europa League. They’ll fight with Stade Rennais for a spot in the Round of 16 of the competition.
Milan have struggled with consistency amidst various injuries this season, leaving them nine points behind league leaders Inter after 16 matches. Their final games of the calendar year are against Salernitana on December 22 and Sassuolo on December 30.
Speaking to Sky Sports Italia via TMW, Baresi first reacted to Milan’s Europa League knockout play-off draw with Stade Rennais.
“We know that in football we must not underestimate anyone, Milan must think big, be ambitious. French teams are very particular, they must be taken with a pinch of salt, Milan for what we are, what we represent, we must think about winning.
“We must play this competition in the best possible way, we are Milan, and we think big, without underestimating anyone and with respect. We have time, we will play in February, we will be able to recover some players and manage the commitments in the best possible way.”
He reflected on the team’s 3-0 win over Monza.
“Good match, we created and played against a team that weren’t easy. Monza didn’t have the best match, but Milan had the merit of creating problems for them. We managed to play quickly.”
The former defender commented on the Rossoneri’s objectives for this season.
“I don’t think we have to choose, every competition must be played at its best, reaching as far as possible.
“We are at the beginning of the season, the objective is to return to the Champions League, look ahead without losing points, consolidating and improving our position in the table.
“Milan have a squad to compete in all competitions, both the Europa League and Serie A. You can’t choose.”
Baresi discussed the debut of teenager Jan-Carlo Simic.
“It’s nice to see a young man who grew up with us make his debut and score goals straight away. It’s good for the environment, for our colours, for the youth sector. I believe that Milan are attentive when there are some interesting young players to launch.
“We are very watch out for the Italian players, I’m happy for Simic, first there was Camarda. I go back many years, when it happened to me too.”
Finally, Baresi was asked if Milan expected more from the Champions League this campaign.
“It’s clear that we didn’t have the consistency we thought, the Champions League group was very difficult. When you make a mistake in a match you compromise everything.
“The season is long, when the team finds spirit and enthusiasm again, we can cause trouble all the way. If the others are the better, we’ll give them, a round of applause.”
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