In the second part of his interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, Zvonimir Boban said that Paolo Maldini’s late contract extension with Milan was disappointing and hit back at Jurgen Klopp and Pep Guardiola.
The ex-Milan star, now Head Of Football at UEFA, spoke about the Super League, VAR and the World Cup with La Gazzetta dello Sport, but also shared his thoughts on Milan’s title-winning campaign and criticism from Klopp and Guardiola over the packed fixture list in England and Europe.
Boban revealed that he hadn’t watched last season’s last game against Sassuolo.
“I was in my room watching chess games on YouTube, I didn’t dare to watch the match,” he admitted.
Who were the first Milan people he called?
“Paolo [Maldini] and Massara, who then passed the phone to Stefano Pioli. They were on the bus returning from Sassuolo. My father and son were at the stadium, they are crazy for Milan.
“Paolo has worked so well, he was fundamental,” continued Boban.
“Stefano was great at creating an incredible group of players with an amazing spirit, he never gave up. Sometimes we don’t share the same view, but that’s what’s nice about football.”
Maldini extended his contract with Milan hours before its expiration in June. Was it surprising to Boban?
“Yes, it was, and also very disappointing,” he admitted.
Whad does Boban make of Milan’s new signing Charles De Ketelaere?
“He has class, vision and personality. I have a few doubts in terms of the pace needed to be a star, but he is a talent worthy of Milan,” he said.
The Belgium starlet has joined the Rossoneri for €32m in the summer and has made his first two Serie A appearances as a sub. He could start his first game with the Rossoneri on Sunday against Bologna.
Boban was critical of Klopp and Guardiola, who have often complained about the buys fixture list at home and in Europe.
“They should talk to their clubs who are pushing to play more European games because that’s where they get the most revenue,” said Boban.
“I’ve never heard Franco Baresi or Ruud Gullit complain because they played 60 games per season.
“Never heard Marcello Lippi or Fabio Capello argue, and they still won everything. Klopp and Guardiola win the Premier League with their clubs and always reach the Champions League Final or semi-final. They have 25 stars and five subs, I don’t understand why they complain.
“Perhaps, they are just excuses, but they don’t need them. I understand that in England, they have one more domestic competition, but they should argue with their league.”