Ismael Bennacer expressed his confidence in Milan’s strengths ahead of their Europa League quarter-final clash with Roma and spoke about his ambitions in the competition.
The Rossoneri have essentially booked their spot in next season’s Champions League and can now focus on the Europa League, their only remaining chance for silverware this season. The competition could also be key for the future of coach Stefano Pioli, who has come under increasing pressure.
Bennacer returned to action for Milan this season after last year’s serious knee injury, coming back in December before regularly returning to the starting lineup after the Africa Cup of Nations. He’s seen 855 minutes of action across 17 games this term.
Bennacer ambitions
Speaking in a press conference via TMW, Bennacer first discussed his expectations for Milan’s clash with Roma.
“Tomorrow is one of the most important of the season. We’re ready, we have prepared well, physically and mentally. It’ll be a good challenge.”
He was asked if this Rossoneri side were similar to the ones that won the Scudetto recently.
“A different Milan, but I think, for me, even stronger. We have different players with a lot of quality, more experience, there’s a different spirit. On the pitch everyone dies for each other.”
Bennacer underlined his ambitions in the Europa League this term.
“For many of us it would be the only international trophy of our careers, we don’t just want to go to the final, but to win it, especially when you are at Milan and have the mentality of wanting to win everything. But now we are focused on tomorrow.”
He was asked about the end of Ramadan.
“Honestly, it doesn’t change much, because the coach and the staff help a lot when we do Ramadan, they handled it very well and I thank them, because it’s not like that everywhere.
“For me now, it’ll be even better, because you can drink and eat with a little more energy… During Ramadan I had numbers that I’ve never had before.”
The Algerian midfielder commented on how many Milan players could’ve featured in yesterday’s 3-3 draw between Real Madrid and Manchester City.
“For me, almost the whole team… We are strong, I don’t see what who can take away from our team whether it comes from Real or City. We also have very strong players. Even Bennacer.”
Finally, Bennacer was asked if he feels like a leader in this Milan squad.
“It’s not that we’ve been doing well since I’ve been back, the spirit is always the same. There was a delicate period with more injuries, but we are a team, so when things go well it’s because we’re all doing well.
“I’ve been here for five years, so of course I have to give something more. I’m coming back, I’m not 100% yet, but I work every day to be at the top.”
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