Milan coach praises team response in Champions League race and hails Modric: “Kids should learn from players like him”
Massimiliano Allegri admitted AC Milan are still not safe in the race for Champions League qualification despite an important victory away to Genoa CFC.
The Rossoneri moved a step closer to securing a top-four finish with their success at Marassi, but Allegri insisted the job is far from complete.
“We haven’t done anything yet,” Allegri said after the match.
“We still have one more game to win at home against Cagliari.”
“There was more positive energy”
One of the key talking points before kickoff was the presence of Milan owner Gerry Cardinale, who visited the team in the dressing room before the game and again after the final whistle.
Allegri acknowledged the impact of that support.
“Today the club was present with Cardinale, who came to speak before the match, and there was a more positive atmosphere,” the Milan coach explained.
The Rossoneri manager praised the mentality shown by the squad under pressure.
“There was enormous pressure because we risked throwing away what we had built throughout the season.”
“We got ourselves back in order”
Allegri admitted Milan had struggled defensively in recent weeks but believes the team finally rediscovered some balance at Marassi.
“In the last few matches we had created too much confusion and conceded easy goals—that’s not who we are,” he said.
“Today, instead, we defended well and were also a little fortunate.”
The coach highlighted the importance of maintaining focus until the very end of the campaign.
“Until we reach the finish line, we have to stay alert.”
Praise for new arrivals
Allegri also singled out several players for praise, particularly those still adapting to Italian football.
“When players arrive from abroad, they need time to adapt,” he explained.
He specifically highlighted Ardon Jashari’s performance.
“Jashari played a very good match in a role he is gradually learning.”
The Milan coach also mentioned Athekame’s impact from distance and praised the collective effort of the squad.
“Modric is an example for every child”
Perhaps the strongest words from Allegri came when discussing Luka Modrić, whose professionalism continues to impress despite his age and experience.
“I have the pleasure of coaching and working with Luka and seeing the passion with which he practices this sport,” Allegri said.
The coach revealed he ultimately opted for another tactical solution in midfield but emphasized Modric’s value beyond the pitch.
“Modric is an example for every child. Passion and love for this sport must be learned from champions like him.”
Future talks postponed
Finally, Allegri briefly addressed questions surrounding his future at Milan, insisting all evaluations will come only after the season ends.
“At the end of the season we’ll sit down to evaluate the year, what we did wrong and what needs to improve, always in the best interest of the club and the team.”
For now, though, Milan’s focus remains entirely on one final objective: finishing the season with a Champions League place still in their hands.
