Massimiliano Allegri admits he was close to joining Roma, but has “no regrets” about sticking with Milan.
The two clubs go head-to-head at San Siro on Monday at 19.45 GMT, click here for a match preview.
Massimiliano Allegri admits he was close to joining Roma, but has “no regrets” about sticking with Milan.
The two clubs go head-to-head at San Siro on Monday at 19.45 GMT, click here for a match preview.
“I must compliment Roma, as they built a technically and physically strong side with a Coach who immediately settled into Italian football,” said Allegri in his Press conference.
“They conceded very few goals and this shows why they are near the top of the table. The Giallorossi are solid and if they take the lead it’s tough to get back at them.
“As well as Francesco Totti, they are again getting the best out of Daniele De Rossi, while Gervinho was a quality addition. Adem Ljajic and Mattia Destro are promising young players, so they are a difficult team to face.”
Allegri had been in negotiations to take over at Roma over the summer before opting to stick with Milan, a rapport that has been fraught with tension.
“Other clubs had approached me too, but I have no regrets. I am very happy to be at Milan so that I can finish off my work here.”
Former Italy Coach Marcello Lippi praised Allegri this week, suggesting he was not given the credit he deserved.
“That was very pleasing and I’ll buy him dinner when he’s next in Italy. I have always been convinced of my qualities and never doubted what I’m capable of, even if a Coach is judged by his results. In three years at Milan we did something good.”
Allegri was asked whether he would exchange places with Cesare Prandelli, who is expected to leave the Italy bench after the 2014 World Cup.
“It wouldn’t be an exchange because my contract is due to expire in June. I don’t know what Prandelli plans to do.”
Roma have Totti back from over a month out, but the Rossoneri have lost Stephan El Shaarawy again.
“I would’ve preferred to play against Roma without Totti, because he is the catalyst for their football and raises the quality level of the whole team.
“As for us, Mario Balotelli is growing and has enormous potential. On Wednesday he worked hard to defend and I am happy with his performance. Unfortunately we’ve lost El Shaarawy again and Ignazio Abate still has pain in his ankle.
“For the trident tomorrow I have to evaluate who will be the third figure. Riccardo Montolivo or Riccardo Saponara could be the trequartista, or start M’Baye Niang or Alessandro Matri.
“It wouldn’t be bad to spend Christmas with two good results against Roma and Inter under the three. It is an objective we ought to put in our minds, as we only have 18 points and need to be more consistent.
“We need to be compact, efficient and make the most of our chances. Of course, to get a result you need to play good football too, but without those concepts you won’t get the victories.”