The sporting director of Padova and former AC Milan executive, Massimiliano Mirabelli, spoke to Radio FirenzeViola to preview the clash between his former team (where he worked as sporting director from 2017 to 2018) and Fiorentina:
"It will be a more decisive match for Milan than for Fiorentina: if the Rossoneri don't win, Europe will start to look very far away. Milan's current squad certainly doesn't reflect their current position in the standings, so Fiorentina should be aware they're facing a very strong team. That said, I’m convinced that a disappointing result for Palladino’s side wouldn’t compromise their path toward the top spots in the table."
What’s the main reason a team like Milan is struggling so much?
"Replacing Pioli wasn’t easy, I’ve always said that. But I also believe that Milan has built an excellent squad. What’s been missing is the right choice of head coach. I'm convinced that with a different manager, they'd be much higher in the standings."
Is Milan second only to Inter in terms of squad quality? Mirabelli said:
"Absolutely, yes. Just look at Napoli: they’re in the title race with a squad that’s inferior to Milan’s. But the difference there is Antonio Conte. Milan is a team that runs a big risk: that of seeing everything in a negative light when results don’t come. The Rossoneri have a very solid foundation, and I’m certain that with the right leader, next season they could be a real threat in the title race, despite the current criticism."
