Alessandro Florenzi underlined his belief in Milan’s chances next season and commented on the strengths of Scudetto rivals Inter and Juventus.
The 31-year-old Italian full back joined the Rossoneri on loan from Roma last season and played an important role for Stefano Pioli, filling in when necessary to help Milan secure their first Scudetto in a decade. Florenzi’s efforts saw him earn a permanent move to the club, putting pen to paper on a three-year deal.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Florenzi first discussed the importance of team spirit and the mental impact of winning the Scudetto.
“The coach told us something, ‘success changes people.’ We have to make sure that it doesn’t happen to us.
“The coach is very good at this. The Scudetto magic is there, I feel it, however, it must be nurtured. Otherwise it’ll go out.”
He spoke about the Rossoneri’s decision to make his stay permanent earlier this summer.
“Milan had faith in me when few would’ve done so. I have to thank especially Ricky Massara, who already knew me, but I hope Paolo liked me as well.
“And then Milan had already looked for me while I was going to Valencia.”
The former Roma full back spoke highly about teammate Rafael Leao.
“Rafa has to take a step up at a mentality level, but not because he doesn’t have it. I’m talking about something else, the desire to stay in the fight, not to dribble necessarily.
“He lacks this and it’s small, because he has everything else. In him I see Mbappé again, with one difference.
“Kylian never makes a mistake in front of goal. Rafa, however, is there. Rafa is a top player, but don’t tell him that!”
He revealed that he expects Juventus to be stronger than Inter in the upcoming season.
“I know I’m wronging Inter but I’d say Juve, they have improved more. Di Maria is the strongest I have ever played with on my wing. Better even than Salah, who had not yet exploded at Roma.”
Finally, Florenzi suggested that he isn’t too concerned about the bookies making Juventus and Inter the favourites.
“They said that even in 2021 and then… Let’s say that it doesn’t bother me, it will bother me if they raise the trophy in June.”