AC Milan's director, Paolo Maldini, has spoken to Mediaset after the Rossoneri's elimination from the Champions League against Inter. Here are his words:
"The journey is not over. We have a duty to try to qualify among the top four, while waiting to see what happens with Juventus. Reaching the semifinals was a great achievement, even unexpected. Of course, when you face Inter, it stings and makes the journey seem less beautiful than it has been... But we must be clear-headed, good, and honest: we have reached this point unexpectedly."
Is there a gap with Inter?
"The gap is real: in the last 4 matches, there hasn't been a competition. Today, we played a little better, but it was compromised by the first leg. Inter's style of play bothers us, and we haven't been able to find countermeasures. We have also struggled against teams weaker than Inter recently..."
How close is Leao's contract renewal? Maldini said:
"We are in the details, there are very small things to sort out, but it will definitely be done."
What rating would you give to Milan's season with qualification for the next Champions League?
"It would be an 8. We said it last year: we are not yet structured to compete in two competitions, we told the press and our owners, they know it very well... It is a journey that has brought great sporting and economic results. There are many young players. Today, there was an average age difference of three years with Inter. If we were to reach the Champions League, it would be a great season."
Is Milan satisfied after winning the Scudetto? Maldini replied:
"No, you are not satisfied when you achieve certain results, when you win and keep winning; it is not allowed at Milan. I believe there are opportunities to be seized. Returning to this level must be capitalised on, even economically by investing to remain among the top four and perform well in Italy."
