Clarence Seedorf regrets Italy’s World Cup exit and explains how Milan have made ‘giant steps’ thanks to Paolo Maldini.
The former Rossoneri midfielder released a lengthy interview with Il Corriere dello Sport newspaper, discussing the Champions League and the race for the Serie A title.
Milan have a fair chance to win their first Scudetto in 11 years, having a two-point lead over Inter with three games remaining.
“I said at the beginning of the season that this campaign would have been more balanced, with more teams in the race for the title,” he said.
“I thought Juventus and Napoli would have stayed closer to the top spots. Roma and Lazio could have done something more as well.
“Inter have always been the favourite but Milan are on a par now. They are in an excellent position to win the title after many years. This duel is positive for entertainment. In Spain, Germany and France, everything has been decided for weeks. In Italy, we are still having fun.”
Seedorf sees similarities between his Milan side and Madrid, praises Klopp
What has impressed him about Milan?
“They are a team with a great spirit. You see that from how they celebrate goals and their commitment to every game. I see a positive spirit, that comes from the coach’s hard work and his way of being. Pioli gives serenity to the team and the results are out there.”
How about his former teammate Paolo Maldini?
“Paolo’s presence gives the team a winning mentality and embodies the Milan DNA. I know Maldini well and I know that he is always balanced, also in difficult times. He knows how to help the players and remain competitive. Thanks to him, Milan have made giant steps.”
The legendary defender returned to the club in August 2018 and he has helped the Rossoneri return to the top of Italian football. They finished last season as Serie A runner-up, qualifying for the Champions League for the first time in eight years despite having a lower budget than many of their main rivals.
Was Seedorf surprised to see Italy missing out on a second consecutive World Cup?
“I was a bit surprised, like everyone else,” he admitted.
“Perhaps, the players were unconsciously a bit relaxed after winning the Euros, otherwise, I can’t explain a similar result. They could have opened a winning cycle with the mentality shown at Wembley and their unbeaten streak.
“Italy don’t have the best team in the world, they wouldn’t have been the favourite in Qatar, but they had found a system that was working.”