Milan brand ambassador Daniele Massaro, a former striker for the Rossoneri and Roma admits that meeting another Italian club in the Europa League quarter-final was a ‘risk’ the club had foreseen but is confident Stefano Pioli’s men will improve defensively.
Massaro spoke to Sky Sport Italia following the Europa League quarter-final draw in Nyon on Friday: “At least, we know Roma well even if this is a different competition,” said the ex-striker.
“With three Italian clubs, this is a risk we expected. It’s another game, an international competition, there are the best teams who want to get all the way until the end.”
Milan will host Roma at San Siro on April 11 while the second leg will be played at the Stadio Olimpico the following week, on April 18.
“We are aware that many players have grown. We have recovered a few injured players, and we’ll have to prepare well,” argued Massaro.
What does he make of De Rossi’s first two months in charge of the Giallorossi?
“I am not inside their dressing room, but I think De Rossi is working well. He showed his personality from the first game,” Massaro replied.
How does he explain the Rossoneri’s defensive struggles the season?
“If Baresi had been here, he would have given a more exhaustive answer,” Massaro replied smiling.
“We conceded a few goals due to injuries, lack of focus, and the quality of our opponents. Pioli is working well, and now all defenders have recovered.”
Regardless of the opposition, every two legged tie comes with risks but also rewards. The important thing for Milan is to be regularly involved in quarter finals, semi finals etc of European Competitions. It is nearly 20 years since the last time Milan made the quarter finals of European Competitions two years in a row.