Former AC Milan and Atalanta striker, Giampaolo Pazzini, entrusted La Gazzetta dello Sport with the following statements regarding the upcoming match between the Bergamo-based club and the Rossoneri.
Here's what he said:
"De Ketelaere? Let’s start by saying that there is still room for improvement. His qualities were actually glimpsed at Milan, but he arrived there very young, under great pressure, and faced a lot of criticism. Now he’s in an environment where he’s been given trust and continuity. Is he a regret? With hindsight, I’d say yes, he could be considered a regret."
Pazzini on Paulo Fonseca:
"In my opinion, his work is good. He’s faced a lot of pressure even before arriving, and then even after. He’s under scrutiny, and when you are, it’s not easy to work calmly. He’s achieved great victories, but the continuity that could have brought him peace of mind has been missing. It can also be said that the squad, in terms of the transfer market, could be improved, especially considering the top-level objectives a club like Milan has."
Alvaro Morata, is he a successful signing by Milan?
"Certainly, yes. He’s not a 20-22 goals-per-season striker, but I really like the work he does for the team. He plays for his teammates, has a strong résumé, character, and experience."
On Tammy Abraham:
"I like him too. When he played alongside Morata, he managed to bring that electricity that was sometimes missing. He’s a signing I absolutely approve of."
On Paulo Fonseca’s management of Rafael Leao:
"The coach said he tried two different ways of managing him, and now it seems like Rafa has become more decisive. After all, that was the goal—he’s a player who needs to make the difference given his talent. If Fonseca chose a particular approach, it’s because he had good reasons for it."
On Milan star Christian Pulisic, Pazzini said:
"I appreciate him not only because he’s a player who delivers results but because he’s always present. He always performs; you know you can count on him both offensively and defensively. A player with that kind of consistency is fundamental for the team."
What about AC Milan's youngster Francesco Camarda?
"I like him a lot. I’ve spoken to him a couple of times; he’s a grounded boy with hunger, something incredible for his age. He needs time to grow without excessive pressure, but he’ll undoubtedly be the future—not just for Milan but also for the national team."