Massimiliano Allegri joined the chorus of denials about Roma and Inter, insisting third place “would be like the Scudetto” for Milan.
Massimiliano Allegri joined the chorus of denials about Roma and Inter, insisting third place “would be like the Scudetto” for Milan.
The Corriere della Sera reported today that Allegri had already agreed a three-year contract with Roma despite being approached by Inter, but all three clubs have released official statements categorically denying the story.
“These are pure allegations and very disappointing, as I am an honest person and have always said if anything happened then my employers would be the first to know. I won’t talk about my future again until the end of the season, if not to my President and Adriano Galliani.
“I have a contract with Milan and I’m concentrated with the lads and the club to achieving an objective that was thought almost impossible a few months ago. My intention is to stay with Milan, the most successful club in the world. Any Coach would want to sit on this bench and I am already here, so why would I want to leave?” said Allegri in his Press conference.
“Third place would be like the Scudetto considering the way our season started. Fourth place wouldn’t be a failure, but it would be a bitter result and I don’t even want to think about it. These lads deserve third after those difficult moments and the end of an era.”
Milan host Torino on Sunday afternoon, while Fiorentina welcome Roma this evening and only one point separates them. Click here for the match previews.
“Every game is decisive until there is mathematical certainty. Between tonight and tomorrow we should start to understand a little more on third place. Finishing the weekend in front of Fiorentina would be crucial.”
Riccardo Montolivo is out with a thigh injury, while Stephan El Shaarawy is in doubt with an inflamed ankle.
“We will have to evaluate El Shaarawy’s situation today. I am optimistic, but in case of problems Robinho is ready, while Mario Balotelli and Kevin-Prince Boateng will start.
“It’s a shame about Montolivo, but hopefully we can get him back for the last few games. The ideal substitute in front of the defence is Sulley Muntari, but if needs be we also have Bryan Cristante. Christian Abbiati should return too.”
The game against Torino arrives 64 years after the Superga tragedy, a plane crash on May 4 1949 that wiped out the Grande Torino squad.
“It is important to pay homage and remember that tragedy for this great club,” added Allegri. “It is part of football history and we should all remember that great team.”