Maldini’s departure has once again been highlighted as the former defender chose to finally speak out about the events in early June. In a comprehensive interview with La Repubblica, he revealed details about the reasons behind the split and his personal reactions.
The complete interview with Maldini can be found here. While the reasons for the fallout between Maldini and RedBird were extensively discussed previously and remain topics of debate, Stefano Pioli’s team is striving to progress under new management. However, persistent injury issues are posing significant challenges.
Tassotti recently addressed various subjects in an interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, including reflections on the January transfer window and events over the past months.
From an external perspective, it’s challenging to offer precise commentary. As a former footballer and manager, addressing the ongoing injury problems at Milan raises questions about whether increased, reduced, or different training methods could resolve the issue.
Tassotti expressed that intensifying training is complex due to the limited time between matches. He emphasized the coach’s responsibility in resting fatigued players, acknowledging the difficulty in managing this effectively. He mentioned the possibility that MilanLab might have forewarned about injury risks to players like Kakà, Maldini, or Nesta, but the dilemma arises when crucial matches like derbies or clashes against strong opponents are scheduled.
You won the Champions League in 1994 with alternative central defenders, Galli and Maldini. Hernandez played centrally recently, what are your thoughts?
“He performed well, but I prefer seeing him return to his natural wide position soon. His quality and speed are too valuable out there.”
How should Milan address their emergency situation in the transfer market? What type of player is needed?
“Getting a central defender is crucial; there’s only one left. Additionally, a decision regarding Jovic is necessary. It’s not sustainable to consistently rely on Giroud for three high-intensity games in a week.”
Do you have a player in mind for Milan? Maybe someone not very famous but you like?
“I’d suggest Sudakov, whom I worked with in the Ukrainian national team. I’ve noticed discussions about him, and he interests me. However, I understand it’s challenging to bring him from Ukraine.”
Is it the right decision to continue with Pioli?
“Absolutely, he deserves to continue. He has achieved beyond expectations, developing many players and clinching a championship when no one anticipated it.”
What are your thoughts on Maldini’s departure?
“In my view, letting go of him and Massara was a mistake. They achieved significant results. Nevertheless, those who invest the money have the final say, but in brief…”
Prediction: How will Milan perform this season?
“They’ll battle until the end for a spot in the Champions League; beyond that… time will tell.”
Perhaps their success might hinge on Leao’s performance moving forward?
“I sense that Leao is often judged for his carefree demeanor, which is just his natural way of being. It doesn’t mean he lacks dedication. Right now, he might not solely focus on scoring goals but prioritizes playing beautifully. However, he’ll soon realize he can score a goal per game. I’m confident maturity will come with time.”
What are your future plans? Are you considering returning to coaching?
“I prefer not to stray too far from Milan, but in our line of work, sometimes we’re taken far away.”
Who do you discuss football with? Perhaps Ancelotti and Shevchenko, with whom you worked as a deputy at Genoa?
“I haven’t had much contact with Ancelotti lately. I communicate regularly with Shevchenko and also with Allegri. Both of them, along with Landucci, are close friends with whom I keep in touch.”
Leave a Reply