Boss Massimiliano Allegri has warned his Milan side that defeat is not an option in their irrelevant tie against Zenit St Petersburg.
Boss Massimiliano Allegri has warned his Milan side that defeat is not an option in their irrelevant tie against Zenit St Petersburg.
The Diavolo will host the Russians at San Siro on Tuesday, but it will have no bearing on the group as the Diavolo have already qualified as runners-up.
“It’s a Champions League game and we want to do well,” he stated. “In the last eight games in which we had already qualified, we’ve lost five and all of those were at home.
“Tomorrow I want to see a side with the right concentration to avoid another loss. It is an important game for the club’s finances and Italian football’s ranking.
“We have to get a result also because we want to give some continuity after our win at Catania.”
Allegri, however, will not be able to field his strongest side with Riccardo Montolivo and Stephan El Shaarawy set to be rested. Philippe Mexes, meanwhile, is suspended.
“We won’t change the system, but a few players will,” he added. “ It’s probable that Djamel Mesbah will start on the left of defence.
“Giampaolo Pazzini? He’s scored five goals, he played well against Juventus and he has my faith. He could play.
“He’s an important player for us, whether he starts or comes on during a game.”
Alexandre Pato will again miss out because of fitness issues. “He’s still struggling with his thigh and it will be tough to get him back for Sunday. We have to be cautious with him.”
Allegri was also asked about his club’s plans for the January transfer window.
“The club is alert to everything,” the tactician added. “We’ll have clear ideas when we sit down around a table to talk about it.
“Some individuals will certainly leave though because we can’t have 40 players at Milanello…”