Former Juventus, Milan and Italy defender Gianluca Zambrotta has given his verdict approaching the Europa League quarter-final second leg between the Rossoneri and Roma on Thursday evening, and has also shared his thoughts ahead of the summer transfer window session.
The 2006 World Cup winner believes that the success of Milan’s 2023-24 season will be defined by their result against Roma in Europe, as Inter have practically secured the league title.
In fact, the Nerazzurri could mathematically confirm the Scudetto against Milan in San Siro when the two sides meet for the Derby della Madonnina at the weekend.
Assessing Milan’s season to date in an interview with Tuttosport reporters, Zambrotta said: “We need to see how the journey continues in the Europa League, starting with qualification for the quarter-finals against Roma.
“If Milan manage to recover against the Giallorossi, the judgement becomes a bit different. That’s because there isn’t much to say about the league. Milan have one more point compared to last season after 32 matches.
“It means they haven’t done badly, but Inter have been too strong, just like Napoli a year ago.
“We must give credit to those who pass through in the Europa League before we give any other verdict.”
Zambrotta was also asked which areas he would seek to improve in the transfer market if he were in charge of his former club.
“We need a real number nine, the club have to sign a top-level centre-forward, even more so if Giroud leaves.
“A new striker can change the team, it’s the first order of business they have to act on. Then, a defender with personality and quality, one who can help the others around him.”