Massimiliano Allegri is confident Milan–Napoli will be “a spectacular encounter” even without banned Mario Balotelli.
There is a four-point gap between second and third going into tomorrow night’s showdown at San Siro. Click here for a match preview.
Massimiliano Allegri is confident Milan-Napoli will be “a spectacular encounter” even without banned Mario Balotelli.
There is a four-point gap between second and third going into tomorrow night’s showdown at San Siro. Click here for a match preview.
“It’s a shame that we won’t have Balotelli, but in any case we must not repeat the mistakes we made against Fiorentina” data-scaytid=”7″>Fiorentina,” said the Coach in his Press conference.
“We had almost secured third place when leading 2-0 in Florence, but this is the situation and we now have to roll our sleeves up to get as many points as possible to reach the Champions League.
“The lads have achieved a great deal so far this season, but a six-point advantage over fourth is not enough. The team needs to mature and you reach that by making mistakes and learning from them.”
Milan fought back from 2-0 down to earn a 2-2 draw away to Napoli earlier this season, so the fight for second place – and automatic Champions League qualification – is still open.
“If Napoli were to beat us tomorrow night, then they would put second place under lock and key. Napoli know how to strike with rapid counter-attacks. It will take balance and patience for this game, but I expect a spectacular encounter.
“The future? I won’t talk about that now, as I am focused on Milan and our objectives.”
The week has been dominated by Inter’s accusations towards referees, some of which included suggestions Milan were being favoured to reach the Champions League.
“Refereeing controversy is part of the game. We never stir up controversy, even if there have been errors against us too,” shrugged Allegri. "If there really was a conspiracy, then we would've won in Florence and have Balotelli available."