Clarence Seedorf praised Antonio Conte and Juventus” data-scaytid=”3″>Juventus, but sees this game as “an opportunity” for Milan.
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 GMT, click here for a match preview.
Clarence Seedorf praised Antonio Conte and Juventus, but sees this game as “an opportunity” for Milan.
It kicks off on Sunday at 19.45 GMT, click here for a match preview.
The Dutchman has faced Juve many times in his playing career, but this will be his first as a Coach.
“We will have a packed San Siro behind us, just as we did against Atletico Madrid. The lads really need it,” he said in his Press conference.
Mario Balotelli remains in doubt after sustaining a shoulder injury in the 1-0 Champions League defeat to Atleti.
“It is also important to have all the players at my disposal, as everyone trained regularly apart from Balotelli and Giampaolo Pazzini. Balo needs to be examined today, while Mattia De Sciglio and Pazzini are available, albeit with a bit of pain.
“Pazzini is more experienced than Balotelli and is already a complete player, whereas Mario is still learning. Giampaolo’s motivation is a guarantee.”
Seedorf was asked whether this showdown with leaders Juventus represents a test of Milan’s maturity.
“I think the trip to Sampdoria was more than this game. Samp were unbeaten at home in 10 games, whereas against Juve it is an opportunity.
“This is my first Milan-Juve as a Coach. I feel honoured and privileged to experience it at such a young age. For the team this is the chance to put in a great performance, build confidence and help us face the rest of the season in the best way.
“Antonio Conte has done a great job and I tip my hat to him. Since winning the title in the first season, Juventus have only improved. When you win the self-confidence grows and players get more accustomed to working together.
“I have never worked with Conte, but he certainly helped to renew Italian football. I consider him a very positive influence, like Vincenzo Montella at Fiorentina. I still have everything to prove and am trying to learn quickly.
“Serie A is the toughest League in the world precisely because every Coach is well-drilled in tactics. In terms of players the level of individual stars might’ve dropped because the money migrated elsewhere, but it’s still a very high level.”
Seedorf confirmed it is “very probable” Andrea Poli will start tomorrow evening, but shrugged off questions about referees or the infamous Sulley Muntari phantom goal that wasn’t awarded in Milan-Juve.
“Muntari’s goal? I don’t remember anything about that. I don’t want to cause controversy, but I share Montella’s comment that we must all try to be united. Controversy is a headache. We should have technology to help referees, who in Italy are very good, but until we do then we’re always going to have these debates.”