Massimiliano Allegri has already achieved his primary objective, transforming an initially disorganised Milan into a solid and competitive side, so much so that he is now considered among the leading candidates to succeed Gattuso as head coach of the national team.
Despite the excitement around a potential title comeback being dampened by the defeat against Lazio, the Livorno-born manager is determined to finish the season strongly for two key reasons: to be ready in case of an unlikely collapse by Inter, and to build firm foundations for next season, when the aim will be to win the title rather than merely secure a top-four finish, as relayed via La Gazzetta dello Sport in this morning's print edition.
The race for Champions League qualification remains open and treacherous, with Napoli having already overtaken the Rossoneri and Como trailing by just six points, making the final eight matches, starting with the away trip to the Maradona Stadium: crucial.
Allegri, who will have Leao back for Monday’s fixture, is now urging his players to abandon the inconsistency shown so far, marked by major victories mixed with dropped points against smaller sides, and instead adopt a ruthless, winning mentality, essential for securing qualification and honouring the club’s history.
