Andriy Shevchenko offered some advice to Charles De Ketelaere after the Belgian’s disappointing start with Milan and suggested the club will face more difficulty in their next clash with Tottenham.
The 21-year-old Belgian forward was the key figure of the Rossoneri’s summer transfer market campaign, costing €32m plus add-ons following a long battle with the interested Leeds United.
Unfortunately for De Ketelaere and Milan, things have not gone as planned in his first six months in the Lombardy capital and he’s failed to show much of anything across his 1100 minutes of action.
Speaking at the United for Ukraine event, Shevchenko first discussed the pitfalls facing Milan in their upcoming Champions League Round of 16 second leg with Tottenham.
“It will be a difficult away match in London, Tottenham play well at home and will raise the tempo, but I see a growing Milan side that have regained serenity.
“I congratulate Pioli for the Panchina d’Oro, then I want to send a message of closeness to Zaccheroni, who has been important in my career.”
He commented on the last time he spoke to Milan director and former teammate Paolo Maldini.
“They won the league last year… During the season there are always difficult moments, but I see a Milan that are coming out of this period.
“They did well in the Champions League, the fans pushed them a lot, they had a different pace and grit and I hope they maintain consistency.”
The former striker touched on what the Rossoneri are missing to find success in Europe.
“When you are at this level, everything rises up, you play direct clashes…. Any minute of any match can change everything.
“Milan lack some experience, but I hope as a former Milan player that the team are competitive.”
Finally, Shevchenko gave his thoughts on De Ketelaere and his slow start to life with Milan.
“He has to find the grit within himself. He lacks a bit of experience, but I can see the technical qualities. He needs a goal to unlock himself, but having chances every game this goal will come soon.”