Riccardo Montolivo is eager to take part in the World Cup and get Milan competitive again next season with Stephan El Shaarawy.
The midfielder spoke to Milan Channel ahead of Sunday’s final Serie A round against Sassuolo” data-scaytid=”6″>Sassuolo.
Riccardo Montolivo is eager to take part in the World Cup and get Milan competitive again next season with Stephan El Shaarawy.
The midfielder spoke to Milan Channel ahead of Sunday’s final Serie A round against Sassuolo.
“We have to win for so many reasons: for pride, because it’s the last of the campaign and we want to send a signal,” said Montolivo.
“We know there is only a very slim chance we can qualify for the Europa League, but we want to try. We must win for the table and our fans, as we don’t want to disappoint them again.”
The Rossoneri’s hopes of a top six finish suffered a heavy blow with their last-gasp 2-1 defeat to Atalanta.
“That goal at the last second was the symbol of this season,” shrugged Montolivo. “We gifted them the first half, then got back on track only to not keep concentration till the end and pay the price.
“Our ambitions at the start of the season were very different. I think the problem was more to do with concentration and psychology than anything else, as we really need to improve that aspect.
“This is an ambitious club that must aspire to great achievements, so we cannot be satisfied.”
Milan put so much faith in Montolivo that he was handed the captain’s armband this season.
“It is in negative moments that you have to show what you’re really made of. I carried this armband with great pride and will continueto do so. Nobody can be satisfied with the season we’ve had.”
There were again numerous injury problems for the Rossoneri to deal with and Montolivo looks to the future.
“El Shaarawy has unique characteristics and we really missed his pace on the ball and his qualities. Unfortunately he was unlucky with the missed World Cup call, but I think Stephan will b like our first signing of 2014.
“Our objective is to become competitive again next year and my desire is for the fans to see their team winning again.
If El Shaarawy is off the provisional list of 30 Italy players, then Montolivo is included in the Brazilian expedition.
“I hope to be in the final 23,” continued Montolivo. “I also hope Italy can be protagonists, but it all depends on us.”