“The Coppa Italia is our Champions League” this season, said Pippo Inzaghi, as he outlined his vision for Milan.
This is the first time in over a decade that the Rossoneri have failed to qualify for Europe, as 13 times in the last 15 years they were in the Champions League.
“The Coppa Italia is our Champions League” this season, said Pippo Inzaghi, as he outlined his vision for Milan.
This is the first time in over a decade that the Rossoneri have failed to qualify for Europe, as 13 times in the last 15 years they were in the Champions League.
“Milan cannot stay outside of Europe, so first of all we must do better than last year and earn qualification to a Cup competition,” Inzaghi told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“Will we snub the Coppa Italia? No, this year the Coppa Italia is our Champions League. This must be clear. Winning a trophy is always important, even more so now.”
Milan are the top scorers in Serie A so far this season with 13 goals in six games, but have also conceded nine.
“I want a balanced side that doesn’t concede many goals. That’s the only way to grow and become great. At the same time, I like attacking football and we’re happy that so far we are top scorers. I am waiting to have all the centre-backs at full fitness so we can improve at the back too.”
The introduction of Fernando Torres is forcing a tactical change, but Inzaghi doesn’t see it as a problem.
“Menez is a striker and he plays as a centre-forward in his own way. It’s my job to balance Torres, Menez and Pazzini so they are in the ideal conditions to give their best.
“I had heard negative comments on Honda, but he earned my respect in training and in a match situation. I also wanted to talk to Menez and within a minute realised he was determined to come to Milan and win back respect.
“I chose the 4-3-3 system for El Shaarawy. I’d always put him on the field, but I have to think of what is best for Milan. If he always plays with the spirit he showed against Chievo, then he won’t be on the bench for long.
“At times it is really difficult for me to choose a starting XI and that is a good sign.”