Fabio Capello and Arrigo Sacchi feel Thiago Motta would be an ‘ideal’ replacement for Stefano Pioli at Milan, but both ex-coaches believe there is one condition to get the former Italy international.
Ex-Milan coaches Sacchi and Capello believe Bologna boss Motta would be an ideal replacement for Pioli at San Siro.
Motta’s contract at the Stadio Dall’Ara expires in the summer, while Pioli’s deal with Milan runs out in June. However, the Serie A giants finished the last two seasons empty-handed, so multiple sources in Italy claim Pioli will be sacked at the end of the season.
Gazzetta asked Capello and Sacchi if Motta would fit the Rossoneri well.
“He’s one of my favourites. He has experience in top clubs, thanks to his career as a footballer and he has done interesting things at Bologna,” said Capello.
“He is a former midfielder too. Look at the best coaches in the world; you’ll find Conte, Xabi Alonso, Ancelotti, Arteta, Allegri, and Xavi in the group. They all have something in common, no? Midfielders have something more. It could be vision, a sense of balance, or the ability to manage attack and defence.”
Does it mean, he’d be a good candidate for the Rossoneri?
“Yes, I think he is ready for the big leap.”
However, Capello feels that Motta must do one thing if he goes to Milan.
“He must understand where he’s working. Every country has different characteristics. Some unwritten laws must be known,” noted Capello.
“Guardiola’s heritage is still clear in Spain. In England players run and battle even if they lose 3-0, in France physicality dominates. He must understand how players think. In every nation, there are things you can ask footballers and others that must be avoided.”
What if Milan don’t get Motta? Who should they go for?
“A coach who knows Italy already, one like Fonseca.”
Sacchi also praises Motta saying that the ex-Italy international is a “modern, European and visionary” coach.
“Just look at Bologna. He has given an exciting playing style to a group of mostly unknown players. In a country that focuses on the single player, he has transmitted the idea of the collective,” said the 78-year-old.
“He’d be ideal [for Milan], but on one condition.
“I love coaches and I want them to be put in the best conditions. Here at Milan, I still haven’t understood the line of command.
“I’d never stop saying that successes always start from the club. How is Milan structured? Who decides? Thiago Motta is ideal because a coach who is fighting for the Champions League with Bologna must have superior qualities. However, Milan must welcome him with availability and the patience a coach needs.”