Milan President Paolo Scaroni insists Milan need a new stadium to reach the level of Liverpool and other top European clubs and provides updates on Franck Kessié’s contract extension.
The Rossoneri are sharing the top spot in Serie A with Roma and Napoli. They have all won their opening three league games.
Milan beat Lazio at San Siro yesterday with goals from Rafael Leao and Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who returned to action after an injury.
However, Scaroni insists the Rossoneri’s main target is a top-four finish.
“The priority is to be back in the Champions League, Milan must always be there. If we can do better, we will be happy. The goal is at least fourth place, then if we end first, I will be delighted,” Scaroni told Radio Anch’Io.
“Stefano Pioli has created a perfect mix with young and experienced players, building a real team, aggressive and fun. The coach has never been on the brink, ours is a long-term project since the first day.
“Ibrahimovic always surprises us, I don’t know what he has in mind in his future. If he decided to stay in Milan, he could make a great contribution to our Milan.”
Milan will play their first Champions League game in seven years on Wednesday, travelling to Liverpool for their first-ever game at Anfield Road.
“I can not forget that on Wednesday we will go to Liverpool, a club that earns €100m from the box office, while we get €35m,” Scaroni said.
“Serie A clubs need new stadiums that can allow us to reach the European clubs otherwise, fans will have to accept performances that are not at a European level”.
#Milan, #Scaroni: "Cauto ottimismo per il rinnovo di #Kessié. Scudetto? Prematuro parlarne"#SkySporthttps://t.co/ggh40TJVdr
— skysport (@SkySport) September 13, 2021
But when will Milan build their new stadium?
“We are at a good point, I am optimistic even if there will be a mayoral election soon. October will be a crucial month. After the approval of the city council, which I hope will happen by the end of the year, it will take six months for the design.
“At that point, the construction could start in the second half of 2022 and, between 2024 and 2025, it could be ready.
“The fans know that international football is done with money and without money, you cannot achieve the results that the fans want.”
Gigio Donnarumma and Hakan Calhanoglu left Milan at end of their contracts this past June and Milan hope Franck Kessié won’t do the same next year as the midfielder’s deal ends in June 2022.
Talks between the two parties are ongoing, but according to the latest reports in Italy, Milan are nowhere close to reaching an agreement with the player’s agent.
“I keep a cautious optimism. I have great confidence in Maldini and Massara, who are negotiating with him,” Scaroni concluded.