Carlo Ancelotti believes Juventus remain favourites to win another Scudetto but is delighted “enthusiasm” has returned to Milan.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport for its Monday edition, Ancelotti felt Douglas Costa would “do well” for Juve, despite Bayern Munich selling the winger, and that Vincenzo Montella “needs time” to change Milan’s fortunes but admitted he had doubts over Roma.
Carlo Ancelotti believes Juventus remain favourites to win another Scudetto but is delighted “enthusiasm” has returned to Milan.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport for its Monday edition, Ancelotti felt Douglas Costa would “do well” for Juve, despite Bayern Munich selling the winger, and that Vincenzo Montella “needs time” to change Milan’s fortunes but admitted he had doubts over Roma.
“Juve have won six consecutive titles, so obviously they’re still the favourites, even if they lost a player like Bonucci,” the Coach told Gazzetta dello Sport.
“Allegri teams have a winning mentality and, with it, they can overcome any departure. The transfer window still isn’t over and they’ll sign some more players.
“Meanwhile Douglas Costa has arrived, a player that I had. He’s a good lad, who’s quick, creative and who will do well in Italy.
“The important thing is that the Bianconeri have a solid defence, which was decisive in their long run of successes.
“Allegri knows what he’s doing, you’ll see that he’ll take care of everything to perfection.
“Napoli? Their players have been together for several years, they know each other well and that’s crucial [for success].
“Sarri’s done a great job, you can see his stamp on the team. They’re quick, they can find one another with their eyes closed and Insigne, Mertens and Callejon never give up. They’re points of reference and it’s hard to mark them.
“Still, they have to improve when they find themselves in trouble. There are always dark moments in a match and they must learn to endure them, as well as when their opponents put them under pressure.
“Milan? I’m pleased to see that the enthusiasm has returned there. A full San Siro for a Europa League qualifier is a good sign.
“The Milan fans are hungry and this is a remarkable starting point for them. The new players are good and Montella’s the right Coach to manage them.
“I’m curious to see how he’ll set them up, but one thing needs to be said: he needs to be given time. You can’t cook a great meal in half an hour.
“And after the first defeat, I’ll say this because I know what Italians are like, [the fans] mustn’t crucify him: the path of growth involves obstacles and falls.
“Inter? They had stronger foundations, but they’ve also put a very good Coach on their bench.
“He’ll motivate a group that, in my opinion, were also strong last season. That’s where Spalletti will add value. After that, if some players arrive, he’d welcome them.
“Borja Valero, for example, is a guarantee, and Icardi’s like my Lewandowski.
“He also has a wonderful No 2, which often makes the difference in football, in terms of tactics and formations.
“The goalkeeper makes the saves, the striker scores the goals and you win the games: simple, no?
“Roma? I find it a bit hard to work them out. They’ve changed Coach and I’ve followed Di Francesco for some time.
“I thought he did very well with Sassuolo, but the loss of Salah, I believe, will be felt.
“We’ll also see how their first season will be without a monument like Totti in the dressing room.
“It’s something to consider. Il Capitano was a point of reference for them: who will replace him?
“Surprise packages? I’ve been intrigued by Gasperini’s Atalanta, although their European commitments can burden them in the League.
“I also think Lazio, Fiorentina and Torino will be up there.”