The Milan coach plays down refereeing drama, praises Modrić, and warns about a dangerous Como side chasing Europe
Massimiliano Allegri prefers clarity over noise. Speaking ahead of Milan’s crucial league clash against Como, the Rossoneri coach addressed the fallout from the controversial Inter-Juventus derby, the growing pressure of the Champions League race, and the defining stretch of the season now underway.
“The last three months decide everything,” Allegri said in his pre-match press conference. “This is where the league table takes shape.”
VAR debate and refereeing pressure
Asked about the refereeing debates sparked by Inter-Juventus, Allegri deliberately cooled the tone. “So many people have already spoken about it, there’s no point adding more,” he explained. “We can’t waste mental energy on these things. We have to focus on our own match and on the unexpected situations that always arise.”
Allegri acknowledged that VAR still needs refinement, especially in clear-cut scenarios. “People who are competent are working to improve VAR, particularly on objective situations that shouldn’t be open to interpretation. Everything else remains subjective and in the hands of referees,” he said, suggesting earlier intervention on potential offsides to avoid dangerous follow-up plays.
When reminded of the infamous Muntari goal from the 2011-12 season, Allegri refused to reopen old wounds. “We didn’t lose that Scudetto because of that episode,” he said. “We lost it later. Certain situations have always existed and always will. Going backwards is not the solution—what’s needed is patience.”
For Allegri, the wider context matters more. “This is a beautiful league, but referees are under enormous pressure. The age of officials is getting lower, expectations are higher, and qualifying for the Champions League is economically life or death for clubs.”
Title race and Champions focus
Despite Inter’s derby win over Juventus, Allegri insists Milan remain composed. “Inter were favourites for the title from the start and still are,” he admitted. “Our objective is clear: reach the Champions League. Once we get there, we’ll see what happens next.”
Milan enter the match riding a remarkable run of form, unbeaten in the league since late August and fresh from extending their streak to 23 consecutive results. “Winning at Pisa wasn’t easy,” Allegri noted. “Now we’re back at San Siro and we want to take another step forward.”
Como, Fabregas and contrasting ideas
The challenge, however, is far from routine. Allegri expects a tough test from a Como side led by Cesc Fàbregas. “They’re fully involved in the Champions League race,” he warned. “Fabregas is doing an excellent job.”
Asked about the recurring debate between ‘beautiful football’ and pragmatism, Allegri smiled. “I don’t think in those terms. Fabregas has his ideas and he applies them well. The banner saying ‘better one day with Fabregas than 100 with Allegri’? Just folklore,” he joked.
Squad updates and individual praise
There was good news on the squad front, with Alexis Saelemaekers back in contention. “He’s available,” Allegri confirmed. “Pulisic still has some discomfort, Leão is fine, and Giménez is working well—we hope to have him soon. It’s a shame about Rabiot’s suspension because he’s grown tactically, physically and mentally, but we have alternatives.”
Finally, glowing praise for Luka Modrić, decisive once again. “In key moments, his facial expression changes,” Allegri said. “That’s something only true champions have.”
As the season enters its decisive phase, Allegri’s message is measured but unmistakable: focus on results, reduce the noise, and remember what’s truly at stake.
