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Returning manager Massimiliano Allegri has set his sights firmly on a Champions League berth after AC Milan fell to a disappointing eighth-placed finish last season.
Newly-appointed Allegri, whose previous stint at the club from 2010 to 2014 saw him win the Scudetto and the Supercoppa Italiana, acknowledged that the situation is different now compared to his previous tenure, but was unequivocal about his side’s goals for the season.
“The goal for this season must be to qualify for the Champions League — AC Milan belongs in Europe. The upcoming match against Arsenal is an important test of our preparations, both technically and physically, as we get ready for the season,” the Italian said.
The team has attempted to plug the gaping holes left by Tijjani Reijnders and Theo Hernandez with reinforcements in midfield, bringing in Torino’s Samuele Ricci and veteran Luka Modric.
“Modric is a champion who needs no introductions. And he will be a role model not only in discipline, but also from a technical perspective,” Allegri said at a press conference ahead of their pre-season clash with Arsenal on Wednesday (July 23).
Eleven managers have come and gone since Allegri’s last time in charge, overseeing a turbulent and lean period for the Rossoneri, with a lone Serie A title to their name in the 2021/22 season under compatriot Stefano Pioli.
Defender Fikayo Tomori, who was part of that title-winning squad in 2022, has felt the brunt of the club’s most recent struggles.
“Last season wasn’t what we wanted it to be. We wanted to do better, but now we have to look ahead to the new season and try and do better. It’s been a tough first few weeks of this season… learning new things and learning new systems, new way to do things.”
“Different patterns, and how we want to defend, or where we need to play the ball, where we need to press.. That’s been the main focus. A lot of running as well, so it’s been tough physically, but this is what this period is for. It’s been really good,” the English defender added.
But Tomori will need little motivation from his new coach, with spots in England’s World Cup squad highly competitive and still up for grabs.
“Every season is important. When it’s the World Cup season, I think it’s a little bit different. Every player wants to play for their country and to play in the World Cup. There’s a different feeling, maybe, but I’ll say at this point in time I’m just focused on trying to get ready for the season.”
“I spoke to Tuchel at the end of the last season, before the international break at the end of the season. He just said, ‘Just keep doing what you are doing and keep on improving.’ I’m sure if I do well in Milan that I have a good chance to go.’ I have my eye on it because I have never been, and it will be a proud moment for sure.”
Tomori will have the chance to get his season off to a strong start in front of diehard Milan fans at the National Stadium against Arsenal, with the Italian side also set to face Liverpool at Hong Kong’s Kai Tak Stadium and Perth Glory in Australia.
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