Allegri Ahead of Cremonese-Milan: “The Season Is Decided Now”
Massimiliano Allegri spoke at his press conference on the eve of Cremonese vs Milan, a match that opens the month of March — the very month that was identified as the turning point since the pre-season gathering on July 7th. The Rossoneri coach was fully aware of the significance: “We’ve reached March, and in pretty good shape. Sure, we could have done a bit better, but now the season is decided. In the last two and a half months, everything will be settled: the league title, the Scudetto race, Champions League spots. Starting tomorrow, the descent begins”.
Bouncing Back After the Parma Defeat
This was the first week in six months where Milan had to process a loss. A natural setback after an extraordinary run of positive results. Allegri described how the week unfolded at Milanello: “On Tuesday we were all a bit stunned, but on Wednesday we had an excellent training session. A slip-up was bound to happen sooner or later. Now we need to get back on track”.
The coach also warned about the difficulty of the away fixture: “Cremonese have had a good season and are a quality side. In our last three visits to Cremona, Milan haven’t scored: two 0-0 draws and a 1-0 defeat. The last win there dates back to the 1993/94 season, I believe”. A historical record the Rossoneri will be eager to overturn.
Injury Update: Gabbia Still Out, Gimenez Returns to Training
Allegri provided an update on the injury situation. Matteo Gabbia remains unavailable due to inflammation, with hopes of having him back as soon as possible. Kalulu and Tomori have resolved their respective issues.
The most anticipated news concerned Santiago Gimenez: the Mexican striker has completed his entire pre-athletic recovery phase and could begin training with the squad this week. “He’s feeling good, it’s a positive signal, a great recovery”, Allegri confirmed. His return will add crucial depth to Milan’s attack at the most critical point of the campaign.
Suspended Players and Derby Management
Several players — including Rabiot, Saelemaekers, and Fofana — are one yellow card away from suspension. Allegri was clear on the matter: “The most important match is always the next one. After tomorrow’s game, we’ll see who’s available for the derby”.
Leão as a Centre-Forward: The Capello Debate
The Rossoneri manager also addressed comments from Fabio Capello, who had expressed doubts about Rafael Leão playing as a centre-forward, describing him as a player who scores but doesn’t act as a traditional reference point for teammates. Allegri responded with composure: “Capello and I speak often, I respect him greatly. Leão has already scored important goals. He has different characteristics from Füllkrug, who is a more traditional number nine. Leão moves well, sometimes he lacks that presence in the box, but at times the right ball hasn’t reached him. We need to improve on that”.
Pulisic Ready to Be “Diabolical” Again
Christian Pulisic, the team’s technical leader, was also a topic of discussion. The American, whose season has been affected by injury, was described by Allegri as being in peak condition: “He’s grown a lot, both physically and mentally. He’s calmer now and has more confidence, so I believe he’ll be back scoring soon”. The Rossoneri’s number ten is ready to make his mark in the decisive phase of the season.
Yashari’s Growth: “An Excellent Signing”
One of the most encouraging stories of Milan’s season has been the development of Yashari. The midfielder, initially held back by an early-season injury, has impressed more and more in recent outings, including alongside Modrić. Allegri praised his ability in build-up play while noting his differences from Rabiot in terms of forward runs: “He’s turned out to be an excellent signing. In general, everyone has improved: Adli, Thiaw, De Winter… We have a very good squad”.
Allegri’s Future: “Full Harmony With the Club — Why Not?”
Questions about the coach’s future were inevitable, after rumours resurfaced about a possible departure at season’s end. Allegri responded firmly and transparently: “There is total harmony between me and the club. We discuss things, we talk, sometimes we see things differently, but we all work for the good of Milan. I’m happy to have come back after 15 years”.
To close the press conference, the manager even opened the door to a long-term vision with the Rossoneri, reminiscent of iconic figures such as Ferguson at Manchester United or Wenger at Arsenal: “It’s in my DNA not to change too often. The club has clear ideas and wants to be consistently in the Champions League to compete at the highest level, including winning trophies. So, why not?”.
The Table and the Road Ahead
With 54 points on the board and a 10-point gap to league leaders Inter, Milan look ahead with pragmatism and ambition. A four-point lead over Napoli and an eight-point cushion over Roma and Juventus represent a valuable buffer heading into the final twelve matchdays. Allegri reiterated his philosophy: “We need to focus match by match and collect as many points as possible. Then at the end of May, we’ll see where we’ve ended up”.
March has arrived. Milan are here, and they are ready to fight on every front.
