Former Milan goalkeeper Dida defended backup shot stopper Ciprian Tatarusanu, who has been forced to fill in for the injured Mike Maignan this season.
The 27-year-old French shot stopper, who was a key part of Stefano Pioli’s Scudetto winning squad last season, was forced to the sidelines earlier this campaign due to a calf injury suffered whilst on international duty. Maignan’s return as been slower than initially expected and he’s missed the last 12 games across Serie A and the Champions League.
Speaking via La Gazzetta dello Sport, Dida first discussed Brazil’s hopes at the World Cup following the recent injuries suffered by Neymar and Danilo.
“Brazil are a great team, but the injuries to Neymar and Danilo worry me a little. The team needs them, I hope they can recover. Without Neymar, by the way, we play differently.”
He gave his thoughts on Richarlison’s acrobatic goal in Brazil’s win over Serbia.
“Beautiful, really. We are talking about a simple guy who is playing a great World Cup. His goal will remain in history. In Brazil there is poverty, it is difficult for a young boy to be interested in another sport.
“They play on pitches without goals, but everyone dreams of the Seleçao. And some succeed.”
He backed Rossoneri backup goalkeeper Tatarusanu, who has been criticised by fans for his perceived insufficiencies between the sticks.
“It’s unfair to think that the team lost points because of him. He made many saves. Maignan is strong, I hope he can return soon, but Tata is a goalkeeper for Milan.”
Finally, Dida gave his thoughts on the Serie A title race this season.
“On the weekend of May 28 they will face Juventus, and who knows if they will be decisive like twenty years ago in the Champions League.”