Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini warns Milan are “a top team” with “good players”, but denies they’ll be more motivated for the Coppa Italia final.
The Rossoneri finished the Serie A season in seventh-place, meaning they must win the cup tomorrow to qualify for the Europa League.
“Milan definitely haven’t had good results this season, but unfortunately we start from 0-0 tomorrow,” Chiellini told reporters in this pre-match Press conference.
Juventus defender Giorgio Chiellini warns Milan are “a top team” with “good players”, but denies they’ll be more motivated for the Coppa Italia final.
The Rossoneri finished the Serie A season in seventh-place, meaning they must win the cup tomorrow to qualify for the Europa League.
“Milan definitely haven’t had good results this season, but unfortunately we start from 0-0 tomorrow,” Chiellini told reporters in this pre-match Press conference.
“They’re a top team, they have good players and just like all finals it will be a difficult and balanced game.
“We’re just a step away from history, they’re aiming for Europe so I don’t think motivation will be lacking for either side.
“They could save their season, so it’s clear that will fire them up.
“But our strength over these five seasons has been our desire to continue to win at all costs, because five Scudetti aren’t won by chance.
“Although some might think we’d be sated that’s not the case and we want to prove it again tomorrow.”
With the Old Lady having secured five League titles in a row, is this the strongest side Chiellini has played in?
“I think it’s difficult to make comparisons with history. Certainly we’re making history day after day, and I don’t want to make comparisons between the team of 2016 and the team of 2006.
“We have to think about the present and the future, I’m lucky enough to play for a club that’s doing well.”
Daniele Rugani is expected to play tomorrow, and the centre-back was asked about his defensive colleague.
“I spoke to Daniele when everyone was saying ‘he has to play or he’ll leave’,” Chiellini revealed.
“I preached calm, because your first season with a big club is always difficult, especially at his age.
“We see him every day, and we can appreciate the improvements he’s made and that he continues to make, both technically and personally, but also in terms of bonding with his teammates.
“He’s integrating more and more every day, and he’s ready to play in a Coppa final or even play in the Euros if the boss sees fit.
“He’s ready, and this year – leave aside the fact he’s made 20 appearances – but 20 appearances for Juve are worth more than the 40 he made last year, with all due respect to Empoli.”