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Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 2 2011, 07:42 PM

January is history, it's time to look ahead.

Who do you want out, who do you want to come in?
-----------------------------------------

More Ganso rumors: http://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/milan/?action=read&idnet=bWlsYW5uZXdzLml0LTQ0NTY0

Brazilian press is certain that he will be our in June. Hope it's true.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 08:29 PM

OUT: Amelia, Bonera, Legrottaglie, Oddo, Jankulovski, Antonini, Van Bommel, Seedorf, Inzaghi.

IN: Marchetti, Mexes, Cassani, Cissokho, Ganso.

Not sure about Van Bommel though, let's see how he fares till the end of the season first. Also, I'd love to see Gattuso on his way out, but that's out of every logic with Allegri as coach.

Posted by: William405 Feb 2 2011, 08:39 PM

So is Lamela coming and Lucas?I read once that we've signed Lamela,and once that Galliani struck a deal for Lucas.I hope they come,great prospects.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 08:41 PM

Which Lucas? The one of Liverpool?

About Lamela, yes, there were some rumors that we were interested. But the rumors about Ganso are much more persistent and convincing. In fact, I'm pretty sure he'll come.

Posted by: William405 Feb 2 2011, 08:46 PM

No, the São Paulo one,Lucas of Liverpool is pretty bad imo.

Also,I read in some forum,that the brazilian press are sure that Ganso will be wearing Milan shirt coming summer.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 2 2011, 10:33 PM

Remember how not so long ago Lamela was a 'sure thing'

Posted by: William405 Feb 2 2011, 10:41 PM

Yeah,exactly.I really hope that Ganso's story is true,I won't celebrate his signing until it's 100percent done deal,no letdowns ;p .

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 2 2011, 11:01 PM

Well, the Lamela rumors popped out of nowhere, whilst Ganso has been talked for almost a year now. Also, apparently Galliani met him personally in Rio when he was dealing Ronaldinho with Flamengo there. And now all these confirmations, it makes me believe that we're determined to invest on hin.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 3 2011, 06:14 AM

I thought we were getting some bloke called Marcelinho.

In any case I want a fullback, a creative passer and if Pippo is leaving a goalpoacher. But I doubt Pippo will leave.

Zee might/might not extend. I remember him once saying he'd like to play out his contract and go back to his charities.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 09:30 AM

Two quality fullbacks (Cassani, Cissokho)
One quality centre-back (Mexes)
One quality trequartista (Ganso)

Four signings. I mentioned those names, but it could be anyone as long as they're quality players. If Galliani manages to make that happen, Allegri will have in his hands a very competitive team.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 3 2011, 09:43 AM

I think Allegri already has a very competitive team ... Ofcourse, come the end of the season and all those contracts set to expire, we will need to be fairly active in the transfer window.

Posted by: acid911 Feb 3 2011, 10:19 AM

Amen to that. That would be the very right thing to do, more so if someone like Ganso arrives.


Of course, he has to stay as coach till then. A slip-up even by one point, lost Scudetto, and Senior Allegri will be history. Even Galliani was very straight up in saying that the league is the biggest priority.


I wouldn't be so sure on the contracts that are set to expire. I've got a feeling a good bunch of them will be renewed, while obvious ones like Janku, etc will not.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 11:19 AM

Yes, he has an already competitive team in his hands, but not competitive enough to challenge big names for the Champions League. Our priority this season is the Scudetto, but next year we must make a wink at the Champions League as well. And to do that, we need some quality reinforcements, especially in defense.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 3 2011, 11:39 AM

So long as it doesn't really affect our league form, league comes first for me - always. Too many times in recent years we've been far too happy to pretty much give the title to Inter in the hope that we can win the European Cup. Not good.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 3 2011, 12:09 PM

I still think we're gonna pull out that Criscito deal with Genoa. The winter period just wasn't suited for that kind of deal.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 3 2011, 12:19 PM

To challenge for the CL trophy you need a coach of that caliber as well ... I don't see Allegri winning it for Milan, of course that doesn't mean Milan should reinforce in the summer .. It's just that I find our chances to land an 8th CL trophy being very weak.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 12:39 PM

I completely agree with you there. Allegri just doesn't convince me on the big scene. I think he still has that small-club mentality, which is clearly reflected in our game. But you never know, with the right set of players, even a rookie manager could overachieve.

We've been lacking proper fullbacks since 2007, when Oddo and Jankulovski were at their top. We've also been lacking a quality trequartista since Kaka' left. Personally, I think these absences have highly influenced our game in recent years. Just look at Inter last season. Two of their main strengths resided in Maicon and Sneijder.

Posted by: pacang Feb 3 2011, 12:44 PM

100% agreed.. there's a part in "the damned united" movie which says when a transfer is completed 99%, it could mean the player hasn't signed yet.. but, maybe it's just in the movie..

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 3 2011, 12:54 PM

Yeah, the issue of Milan's fullbacks has been in circulation since Cafu and Serginho left, now we have made an acquisition in Didac Vila and I don't trust those youtube clips so until I see him for a whole 90 mins, I'll remain inline with the crowd who claims we have a fullback problem.

On the other hand, I would also like to point at the issue of our formation not being dependent on a triquartista anymore .. We play with a 4-3-3, where the front three are all pure strikers in essence, and as we have observed they work very well at creating chances for themselves .. Hence I am comfortable in the fact that we dont have a pure triquartista anymore. If we end up getting one, all the better, but it is not a pressing issue IMO as a fullback would be.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 01:04 PM

Our playing system is a huge issue IMO. We can't play a 4-3-3 because we simply lack the necessary assets. Robinho is the only winger we have. Pato is not a winger, neither is Cassano nor Boateng. Our playing system is 4-3-1-2, with Robinho behind the strikers. However, that is not a solution, because 1) Robinho tends to go wide and thus leave a hole in the center, which in turns affects Pato's positioning, who goes wide as well, instead of playing as a pure striker; 2) Robinho does not have the quality of making assists to the forwards like Rui Costa, Kaka' or Seedorf do.

Thus, our game, at the moment, is a big clusterfuck. This could be solved only by signing a quality trequartista that would allow us to play the 4-3-1-2 system effectively and efficiently.

Posted by: acid911 Feb 3 2011, 01:24 PM

Fixed. For all intent and purposes, Seedorf only has one assist all season, the one he made to Ibra (probably) in one of the first few matches. The guy can be a sub for a little while longer, but we probably have the worst #10 in all the top clubs right now. Even last season the guy was comparatively better.


Agreed. Hence more the reason to buy Ganso (or someone else that is top quality). Can't wait for the summer transfer window, I sense at least two players coming, and a bunch from the current squad leaving.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 3 2011, 03:58 PM

Zee has 5 assists this season. http://soccernet.espn.go.com/stats/assists/_/league/ita.1/italian-serie-a?cc=4716

6th in the Serie A list. And at par with Krasic who a lot of people were drooling over in this forum.

It's just the fact that we remember Zee at his imperious best and compare him to now. If Zee had performed like Pastore did for Palermo in the match before the last....he'd be getting his heart chewed out.

But to get old in football it seems is to condemn yourself by default to being considered mediocrity.

Posted by: acid911 Feb 3 2011, 04:10 PM

True. It's a pity he got injured, at the wrong time then. Would have been good to see how he slotted in behind Ibra and friends and tried creating chances (particularly with Pirlo out too). Fact is that I still remember his peak from the late 90s to say our 2007 CL adventure. The last few years have been a big downer from those heights, and the major part of it has got to do with his laziness - the intelligence is still there it seems.

I still haven't forgiven him for not covering the space for Madrid's second goal at San Siro, though. He wasn't directly at fault for the last-minute goal, but a bit more application from him could have prevented that goal. Would have been a hell of a victory after going 1 down.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 3 2011, 05:51 PM

Laziness? He's always had it. It's more the fact that he'll be 35 in two months. That is too much for a trequartista. Even Zidane hung his boots at 33. Seedorf's contract expires in June. I swear, if Galliani decides to renew it, he'll be making the biggest mistake of his life!!!

(Alright, the last bit was an exaggeration, but you get the point. )

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 3 2011, 08:59 PM

What, that you started to exaggerate things and now you can't let go of it?

Anway, 'always' is a very very subjective term. I remember a very busy and hard working Seedorf at Real, even Inter.

I'd renew with him, clearly he adds up more to the team then showed on pitch. Same goes for a bunch of players, while some should leave. But it's up to the board and themselves to deal with it.


Exactly. It's only when you retire some people realize what's gone and lost for ever.

Posted by: dst Feb 4 2011, 01:07 AM

Stats... really? Do you watch the games? Sure he's made 5 assists... probably did not do anything else in those matches. You can't afford that as a team in my view.

I don't blame him... had I won what he was won I'd probably not even warm up... playing against Bari... he's played more CL finals than he's played Bari... he can't start matches, not Series A matches anyway.

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 4 2011, 03:33 PM

Since when stats matter? he's capable of much more than that. just like you say Pato is capable of much more than 8 goals in 10 starts. you know...

Everyone's biased towards their own favorite players, I guess.

Posted by: dst Feb 4 2011, 03:35 PM

except for me because my favorite player is actually a God

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 4 2011, 03:39 PM

Who is that then?

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 4 2011, 03:49 PM

The other Paul McGrath

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 4 2011, 03:51 PM

I was going to go with the sarcastic reply of "Technically, Maldini isn't a player anymore.."

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 4 2011, 04:29 PM

Fail.
The God.

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 4 2011, 07:46 PM

Um... have we signed Ganso?!

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 4 2011, 07:52 PM

Aparently so..

25m Euros according to some sources.

Posted by: CHU-LIP Feb 4 2011, 08:26 PM

Sokratis

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 4 2011, 09:12 PM

please can u give a source cant find it anywhere

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 4 2011, 09:24 PM

Sources are for wankers.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 4 2011, 11:02 PM

oh comon

Posted by: acid911 Feb 4 2011, 11:10 PM

No seriously, they are for poozers! Jokes aside, it is being reported all over the Brazilian media. Apparantly Galliani did not just cross the pond for disposing off R80, he practically made a deal for Ganso (some say at 25 million, others 18, while a few even hit the figure up to 40 million).

But knowing the poozer, I am sure he got the guy on the cheap and a good price. That is if he got Ganso at all. Whatever the case, Milan have been keeping the lid on the deal, whether it is finalized or not, so as to not have it hijacked. I guess, we will know 100% come the summer transfer season!

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 5 2011, 04:04 PM

Allegri said today that he didn't insert Vila' in the CL list because 1) he's young; 2) he's played only 12 games with Espanyol; 3) he arrived in Milanello only one day before the list was composed; 4) he couldn't prefer him over players like Zambrotta and Inzaghi.

Now, my counterpoints. Vila' is not young. He's 21 for Christ's sake, that's the same age as Pato. We've seen much younger players compete in the CL. He's played only 12 games with Espanyol this season, true. But that's because he was injured the first two months of the season. He played all games of November and December. Moreover, he played the whole second half of last season as a starter. So please, the whole argument of inexperience is just a load of crap. Moreover, the fact he arrived one day before the list was composed means nothing at all. Finally, he couldn't prefer him to players like Zambrotta and Inzaghi, who will be out till the end of March, but he could have chosen him instead of Verdi, who as of now, has no connection whatsoever to the first team. So please, Mr. Allegri, stop jabbering about pointless crap and be more rational in your arguments.

Sorry for the rant, but I just can't get over this. I really hope I'm proven wrong and Vila' turns out to be a great signing, but if and until that happens, I'll always remain skeptical about his signing.

Posted by: CHU-LIP Feb 5 2011, 04:41 PM

Verdi can play without being listed anyway, am I correct?

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 5 2011, 04:57 PM

No, he was inserted in the youngsters list, along with Strasser, Merkel and Pato.

Posted by: William405 Feb 5 2011, 05:47 PM

So we get only 4 players for the youngsters list?

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 5 2011, 07:04 PM

You are skeptical of Vila's prospects but are mad at Max for making up [cheap] excuses for not including him in the CL list?

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 5 2011, 07:48 PM

Yes. In other words, he just doesn't want to say that "I didn't include Vila' because he's not good enough", so he makes up excuses to justify his choice. Galliani stated clearly that "we would sign a fullback that could play the Champions League", and now that we've signed him, he's not included in the CL list? The whole thing stinks. My only explanation for this, at the moment, is that Vila' is just another Grimi/Mationi/Montelongo that will never see the pitch and will most likely be sent on loan next season. Again, I hope I'm proven wrong and he turns out to be a great signing, but as of now, I can't think of any other rational motive for why he was excluded from playing the CL.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 5 2011, 08:12 PM

Gosh, here comes a story out of nothing. Let it be my friend, Didac Vila is as important as Flavio Roma to the team. We should concentrate on other things, Vila is irrelevant.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 5 2011, 08:30 PM

Even if this Vila doesn't turn out to be the next Roberto Carlos ... Why are you so mad ? What if he was a bargaining chip for the summer transfer widow ? What if Allegri knows his team better than us ? What if Berlusconi bought him just to f@ck with you ?

What do I think ? I'm not bothered; even if he had not arrived, I wouldn't have cared ... Hell a transfer window with Cassano is enough for me

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 5 2011, 08:32 PM

Err, we only have one left-back at the moment, the imperious Luca Antonini. He's been underperforming the whole season so far. Not to mention, if he gets injured, we're screwed. So tell me, how's this problem coming out of nowhere? Vila' should not even make it on the bench tomorrow, according to Gazzetta and Mediaset.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 5 2011, 08:47 PM

We both don't rate Legrottaglie and Jankulovski high, but sorry, the still exist you know. You're making a fuss out of nothing with this Vila thing.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 5 2011, 09:16 PM

LOL, why are you even mentioning Legrottaglie and Jankulovski? The first is a CB, the other has barely played a few minutes in the last two seasons. They are not an answer.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 5 2011, 09:25 PM

Same goes for Vila. Jankulovski and Vila are on same level if you count the pro's and contras.
Legrottaglie can play a LB and done that. Also, there is now Zambrotta and Emanuelson for emergency.

Bottom line is, we don't have a proper LB, with or without Vila. He's irrelevant, once more.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 5 2011, 09:29 PM

You're not feeling me, Fillippo. I have no idea how good Vila' is, I've never seen him play. What I'm annoyed about is the fact that he was excluded for the CL. Like I said, Zambrotta won't be available till mid-March, and Emanuelson isn't available in the CL. So that leaves only Antonini for us.

Posted by: William405 Feb 5 2011, 10:44 PM

I thought Zambrotta was only out for 1 month :S

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 5 2011, 10:56 PM

Yes. Well, I'm just not so pissed because: 1) Allegri isn't CL finals materials (at least not yet) 2) Milan today is a decent squad but not enough strong to be a finalist.

So I don't get so much excited about the CL list, because I already know we're not gonna be finalist, nor is this our priority this season. And honestly, elimination in last 16 or quater finals...who cares? It ultimatively could only hurt us in the league.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 6 2011, 12:01 AM

I want us to pass those quarter finals. The last time we did was in 2007. Plus, we're facing Tottenham, not Barça or Chelsea or United etc. So we have all the possibilities to pass.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 6 2011, 12:28 AM

What's the difference? Teams like Milan play the CL to win it or the don't care at all. Even if we pass the Spurs, what then - a humiliation against Barça?

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 6 2011, 01:21 AM

Milan has always cared about the CL. And even though this year we're concentrated mostly on the league, we are going to try and win it. Hell, who wouldn't?

Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 6 2011, 03:48 AM

Exactly. That's the right spirit. We might not win it, but some other team will have to spit blood to past through us.

Posted by: vnata001 Feb 6 2011, 06:31 AM

by the way, i don't seem to see this spurs tie as being particularly easy - don't short change them. They're central midfield is creative, their wingers have world class pace, and their cf's are erratic but at times deadly. I think this game is going to open, decided on away goals, high scoring, and IMO despite the glamor of Arsenal-Barca and Inter-Bayern, could be the best match of the round for neutrals. They've beaten Inter 3-1. No shame in losing to them if we do, and if we beat them, then we should feel confident about a deep run. This tottenham tie is the perfect litmus test.

But more than them, it's our injuries that'll hurt us. I hope that when we face them, we'll have Boateng and Flamini's legs in midfield cuz they're midfield is fast. With Pirlo fit, playing shackle-free, allowing him to pick out balls to ibra or link up cassano and robinho, I actually do think we're champions league final material.

About Vila, he's not completely irrelevant. He's a starting player on the spanish under-21 national team. If Galliani had swooped for the equivalent for the Azzurini, im sure we'd all be happy. If he's technically capable of playing in spain, and learns the guile of Italian defending, Vila could be anything BUT irrelevant. But him missing this year's CL is no prob, i see him as one for the near future.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 6 2011, 11:07 AM

While the Vila transfer was really no big deal, getting Santon would be a bomb. I don't think it's comparable in any way: if we had signed Santon, he'd be listed for the CL.

Vila is not irrelevant for the future, no, he could as well become someone; but right now, he's irrelevant.


Actually, I really don't think so. I think we concentarte completely on the scudetto (hence - the winter signings: not even one CL-wise move). If we had even a dream of getting into the CL final we'd signed a proper leftback.

Posted by: han2503 Feb 6 2011, 11:15 AM

Is Pippo in the list?

I don't get it... Why bother when he's out for the entire season?

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 6 2011, 12:09 PM

Pippo requested, since there's a chance he'll be back in March.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 6 2011, 12:55 PM

Yes. He'll be back in March, along with Zambrotta and Ambrosini.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 6 2011, 12:56 PM

..at least we hope so...

Posted by: CHU-LIP Feb 6 2011, 02:43 PM

And Bonera also. Like it our not, he is a left-back option nowadays. Also Jankulovski is called up, right? That makes 3 left-backs.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 6 2011, 04:59 PM

I'm talking about 'valid' alternatives. The fact Allegri plays Bonera on the left means nothing. He could very well play Pato there and then we'll say he's a left-back? Bonera is not a left-back! Jankulovski never plays, though I'd choose him over Oddo any day.

Posted by: CHU-LIP Feb 6 2011, 05:02 PM

What makes you think Vila would be a valid alternative? I can't judge... can you? Have you watched him this season?

And Bonera can play as left-back, something Pato couldn't. Is Bonera a good left-back? That's a different question. (But we have (close to) no good left-back.) Janku actually have been playing lately.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 6 2011, 05:04 PM

Because HE IS A LEFT-BACK! Jeez, you really couldn't figure that out?

Posted by: han2503 Feb 6 2011, 05:31 PM

The point here is that Bonera shouldn't be thought of as an option at LB. Janku would do a far better job then him atleast. As X-Off said, just because Allegri plays him there doesn't make him a LB, just means Allegri is (Ryhmes with cupid)

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 7 2011, 10:33 AM

That's what I would say as well. do you really expect him to destroy the boy's confidence by saying those words? no, really?!

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 7 2011, 11:03 AM

+1. He said the boy's got a lot to learn, which is pretty much the same as saying he's not ready.

Posted by: William405 Feb 8 2011, 05:34 PM

ilan are keeping very close tabs on Rennes' starlet Yann M'Vila, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

The 20-year-old is already a fixture in Laurent Blanc's France side and is widely considered as the one of the best all-round midfielders to emerge in recent years.

La Gazzetta understands that Milan's director of sport Ariedo Braida has watched M'Vila in person.

M'Vila has spoken of his desire to stay with Rennes next season because he feels regular first team football is important at this stage of his career.

However, Rennes President Frederic de Saint Sernin might be tempted into accepting a bid worth around €15m.

Milan are looking to bolster the central midfield position in the summer, as Mark Van Bommel is expected to leave once his six-month contract expires.

Liverpool are also reportedly interested in M'Vila.

Their director of football strategy Damien Comolli is known to be a particularly keen admirer.


Who is he?

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 8 2011, 05:40 PM

Haven't seen much of him. But I don't trust Gazzetta when it comes to Milan + I don't see us spending so much on a 20 year old midfielder, especially if the Ganso thing is to happen.

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 8 2011, 06:46 PM

Regarding this Yann M'Vila rumor, was anyone else reminded of Gourcuff!? he's French, a Rennes player, plays in midfield, is very young and is "widely considered" as something good! hell, even his first name is Yann, not very different from Yoann!

No thanks.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 8 2011, 08:16 PM

Sorry Zed but...that's really a lame reason to say no. I'd rather have someone who actually saw him play a few times.

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 8 2011, 08:27 PM

I think the fact that he's considered one of the most promising midfielders in the world when he hasn't done anything to earn it is a good enough reason. we've had that experience with Gourcuff before and we have failed. I'd rather we bring a promising Brazilian/Argentinian midfielder.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 8 2011, 08:34 PM

IMO we should at least try to find out something about the guy before we rule him out. Rennes has been doing very good lately; if he's one of the reasons, I don't see why we should give advantage to Argentine or Brazilian boys. That just seems biased and with prejudices.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Feb 8 2011, 10:28 PM

+1

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Feb 8 2011, 10:29 PM

+1 (to tbe bolded piece)

IMO However, it's not necessarily a bad thing!

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 8 2011, 11:19 PM

it probably be one of them as I have not seen any of them so cant really oick one

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 9 2011, 01:30 AM

Oh come on, just because he plays in Rennes and is considered a promising midfielder means nothing at all. Plenty of young players are labeled like that.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 9 2011, 02:22 AM

I have to agree.

I'd personally like us to sign Italian over anything else, but that's only because I like clubs to field players from the home nation. Otherwise, I don't think it makes a difference whether they're from Bermuda or Brazil, if they're good enough, they're good enough.

Posted by: vnata001 Feb 9 2011, 09:20 AM

yeah (agreeing with Fillipo) and gourcuff had not sniffed the senior french set up at his ripe young age when we plucked him. I've watched M'Vila play against England, and while thats the only time i ever saw him play, he is very much more complete than yoann ever was at that age. Mvila is a good, solid player. Substance over style. Nothing outrageously flashy, but plenty of good passes, well timed challenges, and general ability to keep play flowing.

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 9 2011, 07:53 PM

i think this proves he might retire next year

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 9 2011, 07:55 PM

guys this is a smokke screen for Ganso, M'villa has ""basically"" already gone to munich

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 10 2011, 12:02 AM

Taye Taiwo (25), leftback of Marseilles, has reported that he won't renew his contract at the end of the season, and that he and his agent are in advanced negotiations with an important European club.

http://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/?action=read&id=253129

I've liked this guy since he played against us last season, and I wouldn't mind at all signing him for free. Hopefully Galliani works his magic again.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 10 2011, 12:18 AM

I'd welcome this signing anyday. Would be great.

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 10 2011, 05:02 AM

per goal.com
wolfsburg want Seedorf
Everyone wants pirlo

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 10 2011, 05:03 AM

i watch Ligue 1 and tremoulinas is much better

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 10 2011, 06:04 AM

No f@ckin way, I'm letting Zee go anywhere other than retirement. He's ours!!

Pirlo!

Taiwo...hmmm...

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 10 2011, 12:21 PM

Excellent player ... If he is a free-agent by summer ? That usually means he already signed with Milan

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 10 2011, 05:51 PM

YES!!!



NO!!!

Posted by: JimboMilano Feb 13 2011, 08:18 PM

I don't post much, but read the forum everyday lol. After watching the Brazil U20 play last night against Uruguay I was totally sold on this Kid Lucas.

Here is a link of the highlight of the game
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zwscOBIrvNc

If any of you watched the game u could understand where i am coming from. Now the question is did we really sign him or what? I know we are also tracking Ganso but most sources claim that Lucas is the one who will join us in June.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 13 2011, 08:40 PM

The kid formerly knows as Marcelinho, right? Yeah, we've been linked with him. Sportmediaset claimed we've already signed him, whilst sources from Brazil state that we've reached an agreement for Ganso. I guess we'll have to wait and see.

Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 13 2011, 09:10 PM

Ganso has an Italian passport. While not likely, it's not totally impossible to sign both.

Posted by: William405 Feb 13 2011, 10:12 PM

I won't be sad signing even one of them,but signing them both would be well...sex*

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 14 2011, 07:43 AM

one mid i would not mind would be Cheik Tiote of newcastle. This guy is an ANIMAL. Next essien

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 15 2011, 02:06 AM

Pierpaolo Marino, former general manager of Napoli and one of the best transfer specialist in Italy, says Galliani has already closed for Ganso, and that Mexes and Marchetti, saving surprises, should be wearing the rossoneri jersey from next season.

http://www.tuttomercatoweb.com/milan/?action=read&idtmw=253929

I trust this guy more than anyone else, so the fact he's confirming it is really good news.

Posted by: Dracoris Feb 15 2011, 03:56 AM

That in itself is a good window. Just need the fullbacks though....

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 15 2011, 05:36 AM

Where is the money coming from??

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 15 2011, 06:35 AM

Coming from Silvio's current 'tarnished' image in Italy ... What better way to increase his popularity

Posted by: Dracoris Feb 15 2011, 06:35 AM

Ganso would be our Berlu gift, Mexes would be free(?), and Marchetti would be cheap considering what he's doing at Cagliari right now. I'm guessing that Criscito will be coming as well.

Also, we will be freeing up quite a bit of salary space this summer thanks to free agency.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 15 2011, 06:58 AM

Hmm. This must mean the end of Sokratis then, since I don't see Bonera being sold out. He's our O Shea right.

Pity. I would have sacrificed Mexes to get a fullback instead. Also Marchetti? When Amelia is already here? Perhaps Amelia requested to move.

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 15 2011, 08:45 AM

How that can increase his popularity among pissed off Italian women, for example, who may not even support Milan is beyond me!

Posted by: acid911 Feb 15 2011, 08:58 AM

Exactly, not just women, but general public itself say in Sicicly, Turin, the blue and black part of Milan. It's not like everyone in Italy wants to support Berlusconi because he is finally transferring his hooker fund to buy players for our club. I think it's more the case of him not opening his wallet last few years to win the support of the public who are not Milan fans.

And now when that has not worked as well as he had hoped, he goes: "Dash it all! I'll teach these no-gooders a lesson, and bring Milan to its former glories so my club can give your pathetic clubs a beating!" Either that, or it is revenge time against Leonardo, after what he did to his ego last season. But most probably, it is the case of Milan saving money by not splashing needless cash these past few years, and now they want to go all out. This and the funds they got from the Emirates deal.

Posted by: dst Feb 15 2011, 01:49 PM

I would like to see Mexes partner Nesta at CB and Silva to move at RB. But I can't see it now, we've already tried him in a second position, I doubt we'll experiment more with him.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 15 2011, 02:05 PM

One wonders what Yepes has done wrong to warrant being third choice CB again..if this should happen. But at the same time, if we don't replace him and he does make a mistake all hell will break loose.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 15 2011, 02:37 PM

Yepes has been excellent so far but I would be concerned to have him play with Nesta; they're bot not that fast anymore, so it's better we have a Mexes and Thiago as partners for Yepes and Nesta.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 15 2011, 02:39 PM

What I stated was not a fact .. Just an assumption, based on the common consensus that Silvio bought and invested in Milan to mirror the image of a Grand Milan to himself .. In other words, Silvio bought Milan for political reasons, yadda yadda yadda.

So, in light of the recent investments that have been made, and the fact that Milan is not a profit generating business .. Nor does it have the capacity to invest any further ... I assume Silvio contributed to that for the exact same assumption stated above.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 15 2011, 05:01 PM

We're one of the richest clubs in the world, where do you think?

Ganso will be coming for a sum around the 20-25 million, I think. Mexes would come for free, and Marchetti will cost us only 5,5 million. As for the sidelines, there are plenty of names circulating around: Taiwo, Criscito, Bosingwa, Cissokho etc. I believe we'll have at least one quality fullback starting next season.

In other news, Pirlo might not get his contract renewed. Apparently he does not want to accept a substantial wage-cut, and considering Galliani's words recently ("It's one thing declaring your love in words, and one thing doing it in facts"), I'd say things are not looking good for Andy P.

Posted by: acid911 Feb 15 2011, 05:10 PM

Pity. I wanted Seedorf out, but Pirlo to stay. Fingers crossed something works out between both parties!

Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Feb 15 2011, 05:21 PM

As I said a few days ago when news about his injury broke and some were saying how we were going to be lost without him, I think he will head to Man City in the summer.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 15 2011, 05:22 PM

Loosing Pirlo would make things hard. Our midfield does not work properly without him, and playing everything on one card (Ganso), even if it is a prosperous card, can bring us in grave danger. Loosing Pirlo (and for free) would be a big step in the wrong direction, I hope Galliani knows that. There are not so many good midfielders out there to even try to do what Pirlo's been to our team.

As for Marchetti...I don't get it. We have 3 very good keepers. Marchetti in and Amelia out is pretty much irrelevant, considering that Abbiati is better then both.

Posted by: Dracoris Feb 15 2011, 05:39 PM

This season.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 15 2011, 05:43 PM

Pirlo, Seedorf, Ringo, Ambro, Pippo, Nesta, and the list can grow long .. will all leave Milan between this summer and the next.

I believe it is a class gesture from Galliani to allow them to choose their respective fate, trying to pinch pennies from each of their respective sale is unethical, especially considering their accomplishments with Milan.

I am saddened by writing that ... But I 'think' am ready to accept it when the time comes around.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 15 2011, 06:24 PM

But it's painfull, isn't it?

Posted by: han2503 Feb 15 2011, 08:04 PM

Seedorf, Rino, Ambro, etc I can accept. Pirlo and Nesta? NO!

They still have a lot to offer this team, especially Pirlo who's not as old as the others. Letting him go now for an odd million when we've wasted so much in the past with needless renewals to players that did not give anything back is unacceptable imo.

Pirlo and Nesta need to be renewed imo. Ganso for me is still not a Pirlo replacement, he's the long awaited replacement to Kaka and the departing Seedorf. Pirlo is unique and cannot be replaced. We'de have to start playing in a completely different way, and while I do agree that at some point we will need to stop being so dependant on him, next season won't be the right time, especially considering all the changes the team will come under due to the revolving door of players that will be coming and going

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 15 2011, 08:14 PM

All i want for summer is to secure Ibra!!!!!! have we forgotten he's on loan?

Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 15 2011, 08:22 PM

Loan with definite purchase. It's not really a loan, we bought him, but the sale will go through in the summer. Both sides don't have an option to back out.

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 16 2011, 03:42 AM

how much to buy him outright?

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 16 2011, 04:01 AM

24 million.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Feb 16 2011, 05:10 AM

Over 4 years...

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 16 2011, 08:13 AM

Dear god , feester is a delight. Next, he will buy players in exchange for a kick in the shins.

Posted by: JimboMilano Feb 16 2011, 03:23 PM

Ganso: 'I'll play in Milan next season'

http://football-italia.net/feb16d.html

Posted by: acid911 Feb 16 2011, 03:27 PM

Boy, that doesn't tell much does it. Which part of Milan, that is the question!

Posted by: William405 Feb 16 2011, 04:45 PM

He's Leonardo's boy,probably at Inter :S

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 16 2011, 05:24 PM

What the deal we had in place with him/his club?

Tbh, I don't know this kid and I've never seen anything from him, not even a clip. I don't care where he's going to end up next season. the only thing I care about is that we sign a good midfielder.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 16 2011, 06:45 PM

All transfers are done in installments, it's not like this is a one off.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 16 2011, 11:21 PM

The fact is, both us and Inter strongly want him, but Galliani moved much sooner and faster than Leonardo and Moratti. Ganso's comments don't mean nothing, he'll choose either side. It's about dealing with whomever holds his rights (Santos owns 45%, DIS owns 45% and the player holds 10%). Apparently, we've already reached an agreement with DIS (which is some Brazilian company), now we only have to reach an agreement with Santos.

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 17 2011, 06:04 PM

Goal.com/en

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 17 2011, 06:26 PM

oh god Keep bentner away, he's cost more then boriello for god sake. i'm ok with balotelli so long as we sell robinho

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 17 2011, 06:40 PM

Posted by: han2503 Feb 17 2011, 07:32 PM

Balo is more of a CF, doesn't really have anything to do with Robinho. Balo imo would mean less space for Pato, not Robinho who doesn't really offer any of the same characteristics the younglings do

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 17 2011, 08:00 PM

Balo is 40956435076 times better then robinho. plus it would not suck to actually have a nutural CF. The trade off would be financial as well as to avoid a crowded attack

Posted by: acid911 Feb 17 2011, 08:07 PM

I personally think the best CF we can have is sticking Pato in front of the goal. No more second striker, support striker shtick. Ask him to slot in goals by the bundles, the kid's finishing is second to none. Maybe once his muscles are completely developed (around age 25), he can hone other skills and play at different position as a forward.

Then again, maybe not. I'd have a specialist pure striker than a jack of all trades who does jack half the time. Let us admit it, the constant position shifting and what not are hampering Pato's confidence.

Posted by: dst Feb 17 2011, 09:29 PM

I saw him play in Brazil's friendly against the US. He was good but the US looked really bad that night.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 18 2011, 05:03 PM

We're being linked with Mexes more and more as time passes. It would be a fantastic deal, signing the best French defender for free. If I were Galliani, I'd also give a wink to Bosingwa and Taiwo, considering their contracts with their respective clubs terminate at the end of the season. It'd be amazing if we could sign all three without spending a penny.

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 18 2011, 05:07 PM

Goal.com/en

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 18 2011, 05:12 PM

Goal.com/en

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 18 2011, 05:13 PM

Goal.com/en

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 18 2011, 05:16 PM

Football Italia

Posted by: acid911 Feb 18 2011, 05:16 PM

Thanks for posting these news bits, anano1214. We miss these on Milanfan.com, the news section here is practically a ghost town. And yes, I'd love Mexes as a CB here, my Roma-fan friends rate him quite highly, and at the same time think that he won't be leaving the capital-city club anytime soon.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 18 2011, 05:27 PM

All those denials sound like confirmations to me.

Posted by: JimboMilano Feb 18 2011, 06:05 PM

ITALY/ AC MILAN
Rumoured swap with Real Madrid planned


http://www.footballpress.net/?action=read&idsel=79399

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 18 2011, 06:16 PM

I'd do it in a heartbeat, I know many on here who wouldn't.

We're look pretty good in terms of attack for the next few years at least whilst full back is a major problem.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 18 2011, 06:58 PM

I agree. Thing is, Milan could much easier sign a new quality striker then a quality fullback, which Ramos sure is. Mourinho will get Maicon, and he isn't so fond of Ramos, so I wouldn't regard the rumour total BS.

Posted by: dst Feb 18 2011, 07:18 PM

if there's one thing I agree with Mourinho on is that Ramos is not a top level quality fullback. so, as a fullback he's not worth Pato in exchange and no CB is good enough to give up Pato either.

So clearly no from me. It sounds unrealistic too.

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 18 2011, 07:23 PM

It is defitnetaly unlikely, but i could do it

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 18 2011, 07:23 PM

I would, since I've heard this like 5 times before. it's a recycled rumor.

Let me just say that I can't see Ramos joining us.. even if he's bound to leave Madrid, there are better options for him. yes, I'm not Ramos nor his agent or his brother, but I can feel it... that some of these players see themselves too good to play in Serie A. Ramos certainly gives me that vibe.

Posted by: acid911 Feb 18 2011, 07:23 PM

I'm with dst. Bring me something real big if you want Pato. Lots of cash + Ramos, or GTFO.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 18 2011, 07:36 PM

No from me as well. There are plenty of quality fullbacks out there, no need to sacrifice Pato in order get one.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 18 2011, 08:08 PM

I think a straight swap would be 'fair', either side demanding cash would be too much in my opinion. With that said, I don't think it'll happen.

Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 18 2011, 08:16 PM

NO DEAL

Posted by: acid911 Feb 18 2011, 08:29 PM

Fair enough. I just think that Pato being younger (and an attacked to boot), he ought to be worth more. In a world where Pastore is being evaluated at 70m (balderdash, I know, he is not even worth half that), a guy like Pato who has immense raw talent is worth more than someone like Ramos, because we have a bit of an idea of what that guy is capable of. With Pato there is an element of uncertainty - the Brazilian could be real big in just a few year's time.

Of course, it will all come down to if the talent is channeled correctly, a good coach that allows him to really come into his own. If everything goes well Pato could, let me repeat that, could, be at par with the likes of Cristiano and Messi and Kaka, at his prime. It is just the case of him developing, and we waiting till the lad is 25-26.

Let him win a CL at least here with Milan, and then we can think about a transfer. My $0.02.

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 18 2011, 08:32 PM

i want to keep Pato and Buy Ramos )))

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 18 2011, 08:35 PM

Goal.com/en

Posted by: han2503 Feb 18 2011, 08:39 PM

+1

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 18 2011, 08:50 PM

Problem solved.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 18 2011, 10:04 PM

try FM2011

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 18 2011, 11:20 PM

ok -)))))))

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Feb 19 2011, 03:10 AM

+1

Posted by: CHU-LIP Feb 20 2011, 07:17 PM

OMG... that BS is being mentioned nowadays? *disgusted and amazed*

Posted by: JimboMilano Feb 23 2011, 06:21 PM

MILAN, Sergio Ramos even if Pato stays

http://www.footballpress.net/?action=read&idsel=79678

That sounds more like it. There is no way we should sacrifice Pato for Ramos, NO WAY!!!!!!

Posted by: CHU-LIP Feb 23 2011, 06:38 PM

Signing a left-back PLUS Sergio Ramos would fix our defense worries pretty much. Only a left-back, or only Ramos would not I'd say.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 23 2011, 07:17 PM

Flawless grammar.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Feb 23 2011, 07:22 PM

It offends my eyes.

Posted by: acid911 Feb 23 2011, 07:36 PM

Tell me about it. But yeah, if Mourinho plans on bringing in Maicon, then we can make a move for Ramos. Without giving away Pato (or at most promising them first option when we sell the lad). That's the best way to go about it, and only way we can whip away Arsenal and Manchester United.

Besides, he and Paolo Maldini have a good relationship, so maybe he will come here, after all.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 23 2011, 07:39 PM

That's impossible, because Mourinho won't be Madrid's coach next season.

Posted by: Fishdoll Feb 23 2011, 07:40 PM

What X-Off said. While the thought of Sergio Ramos playing for Milan is appealing, it's about as realistic as thinking this fish will be the next Dolce & Gabbana model. He does seem a bit unsettled but this fish suspects that he's going to be at Madrid a lot longer than Mourinho is.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 23 2011, 07:42 PM

What's he up to now?

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 23 2011, 07:49 PM

huh .. acid, grammar check over here please

Posted by: Fishdoll Feb 23 2011, 07:50 PM

Mourinho? More of the same, mostly. Complaining about the refs, etc. The big thing seems to be his war against Valdano (Madrid exec) over various things, including the transfers. Apparently Valdano has now been banned from the dressing room -- but Mourinho didn't get all the players he wanted in the transfer window either.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 23 2011, 07:53 PM

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 23 2011, 07:53 PM

I just hope Galliani won't come to the idea of signing him for Milan.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 23 2011, 07:55 PM

No way. We won't buy him every player in the world.

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 23 2011, 08:25 PM

Yep, when you sign Mourinho as coach, you have to make sure that all his demands are met. Or else he will barge out of there at the next chance someone else hands him a paycheck

Posted by: acid911 Feb 23 2011, 09:12 PM

Huh?! I smell foul play over here, R7. I went out for a late night snack, and mods start misusing their powers. I'm gonna report you guys to m1ke - once he is done conquering the known world. Seriously, though, a big bummer I missed out, LOL.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 23 2011, 09:48 PM

Posted by: Dracoris Feb 24 2011, 01:11 AM

I would take Mourinho in a heartbeat. Not only would it be a massive jab into Inter's pride, but the man knows how to win. Sure he's not doing great at Madrid but he's doing better than the others before him and hes proven himself in the Italian league. Treble anyone?

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 24 2011, 01:12 AM

No thanks for me. He simply isn't suited for Milan, all good and bad things considered.

Posted by: acid911 Feb 24 2011, 01:24 AM

Guys, do yo seriously think Mourinho is gonna leave Real at the end of this season? Even if he comes third there, and puts an end to his undefeated home streak (which has been going on for 9 years) in a few months when Barca come raging, he will still be the coach of Madrid for the next couple of years. At least until the guy has won the CL, and if he gets things his way, humiliated Barca for good measure.

Anytime you look, Mourinho's teams are comparatively weaker the first year he takes charge. It is only after he selects a few players that complete that squad does that team has his stamp and idea of playing style. And who are Madrid gonna get if not him, it's not like there is a higher tier of coaches available. The best ones, come in the same category that Mou is at this moment in time. If he wins the CL with RM, he'll be the most high profile one. If he wins it, that is. Me? I think he's a pretty good coach. Has his own type of a style, and problems with arrogance, but a good coach he is nonetheless.

@Fillipo: You got away easy this time. Next time, I'm gonna keep my eyes open. Jokes aside, you are one of the most careful members here when it comes to good language (literally and otherwise). Unlike a certain guy that goes by the name of Han. I'd half expect you to type up Ibrahimović instead of Ibrahimovic most of the time.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 24 2011, 01:37 AM

Nope, he'll leve at the end of the season, unless Valdano resigns/is kicked out.

Posted by: acid911 Feb 24 2011, 01:55 AM

So it could go either way, right? The guy has ego, so does the club. And my gut feeling is that he will be given another chance, another season to work it all out. Who knows, RM could very well win the CL too - technically at least. All will be evident after the home match against Lyon.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Feb 24 2011, 07:29 AM

Wasn't it already rumored that Barca was given 1st option on Pato when the Ibra deal was complete?

Posted by: dst Feb 24 2011, 07:30 AM

You did not start to watch football yesterday, did you? Surely you must have a clue of who RM are and what their usual business is. I would not be surprised at all if Mourinho was fired tomorrow let alone in the summer.

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 24 2011, 08:29 AM

I find it hard to imagine Jose with any other team next season. yes, RM have a tendency to fire coaches before their time, but this time it's different. who're they gonna get if they get rid of Mou anyway? they have tried everyone! if Mou can't do it for them, no one else can. they better stick with him for another season at least.

Posted by: dst Feb 24 2011, 10:58 AM

I don't think anyone using logic will object to this, the thing with Madrid is that they don't use logic.

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 24 2011, 11:15 AM

That's a good point!

Posted by: Bluesummers Feb 24 2011, 11:52 AM

hmm....some very interesting things have come up in the news recently.......


hmm...I guess i'll give my views.


Transfers........hmmm...

Big signings will be Ganso, Mexes a FB and a ST.

We'll spend around 70m this summer.

Where will the money come from?

Pato will be sold + reduction of contract fees.



As for renewals....hmm. Can't speak about all the players will but I can confidently say Pirlo and Seedorf will not be playing for milan next season.



Milan will look completely different next year. A lot more balanced than we are now.
---


As for mourinho...? He loses against Lyon he's sacked. If he wins then it becomes interesting.


Anyways, Ciao for now

Posted by: dst Feb 24 2011, 12:03 PM

Hmm... yeah... okay!

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Feb 24 2011, 12:24 PM

If Pirlo goes, I wonder if we will land Aquilani.

I think Zee should leave too. Play Merkel.

I'd sell Flamini for Lass Diarra or someone like that.

I'd pass on Mexes and invest in another creative mid.

Left back is the priority..unless Didac looks good.

Be stupid to sell Pato. I don't think this team needs to spend more than 20-30 million max on the market. (I mean net spend not total outlay. Incoming-Outgoing needn't be more than 20-30)

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 24 2011, 12:53 PM

Football Italia

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 24 2011, 12:58 PM

Football Italia

Posted by: acid911 Feb 24 2011, 02:00 PM

Thanks for the news bits, anano1214! Love them! I've got a sad little feeling that Pirlo may have be suffering from a recurring injury (which has been kept from the media). If so, then the management may very well be looking at other options here.

I think I read somewhere that Pirlo is the highest paid Italian player (5 mill I think). I hope something works out between the club and the player. Seedorf we can do without, but Pirlo still has a few good years left in him for topflight football.

Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Feb 24 2011, 02:26 PM

For a moment there I thought I was reading the Football Manager thread.

Anyway about Mourinho? I think he will stay for another year. I don't know where else he'd go there seems to be this general idea that he will go to United. Who I think (think) Fergie will retire with not this summer but the next with Giggs & co. Can't really see him going elsewhere unless he fancies the German league.

Posted by: acid911 Feb 24 2011, 02:34 PM

If so, then we'll give them another first option! Seriously, I am against selling Pato, but if we do I hope he does not go to Barcelona. Besides, RM has been one of his favorite clubs ever, so who knows. It is too soon to tell what will happen, and when.


Of course, everyone knows about Madrid's notorious practices of kicking people (players and coaches) away whenever they feel like. What I was getting at that maybe this time it will be different. If they get rid of Mou, then I fail to see how they can get a big name to coach them, not with the job security they provide. Pellegrini I feel was doing alright and should have been given more time, another year at least, but they fired him to get Mourinho in.

One thing I am sure of is that it is very hard to predict what that stupid club will do in the end. Your theory seems a much better bet (going by their past history), but maybe the RM management will try their hands at a little stability this time around, like ZD and I are saying.


Agreed. I know it's Real Madrid, but it would still come as a surprise if they and Mou part ways just after 12 or so months. Remember what I said about Mourinho's teams always being comparatively weaker the first year he takes charge. It is only after a few years do his teams come into full strength.

Remember inter and their adventures with Liverpool and Manchester a few years back in the CL?

Posted by: Fishdoll Feb 24 2011, 03:59 PM

I don't recall Mourinho having a very public feud with club executives at prior places -- at least not feuds that have lasted this long. He's also getting stick in Spain for his typical antics (insults to other clubs, blaming the ref, etc) when his team doesn't do well (said antics having been deemed 'not worthy of the Real Madrid coach'). Still am far from convinced he'll be at Real next year.

Posted by: dst Feb 24 2011, 04:16 PM

Only if he wins the CL they'll want him to stay but then he'll want to go.

I'd like to see him coach a mid-level club in a big league. I want to see what he could do with them.

Posted by: Fishdoll Feb 24 2011, 04:27 PM

Probably rather well, if his owner gave him total control over everything and unlimited transfer funds.

I suspect it may not be quite so easy going for Mourinho once the financial regs kick in. He's been getting blank checks most everywhere he's gone (some of his big money transfers turned out well, some did not); this past January window at Madrid is the first time a club's really said 'no' to him. Adebayor was apparently waaaaaaaaay down on his list.

Posted by: acid911 Feb 24 2011, 04:29 PM

Same here. It would be worth following that team to see what he pulls off,

Posted by: dst Feb 24 2011, 04:41 PM

No, that's what I meant, a team with limited spending power. But then how far they'd go would depend on how good their scouts would be but I'd still like to see him in a low profile team over a long period of time.

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 24 2011, 05:26 PM

Hmm... chi zadi?

Posted by: Jack Bauer Feb 24 2011, 06:01 PM

Juve has an option to buy Aquilani after the loan ends and they most probably gonna use it. But I'm pretty sure that Pirlo will renew with us.

Seedorf should go to MLS or something.

Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Feb 24 2011, 07:00 PM

#1 - Torquay United

Posted by: han2503 Feb 24 2011, 07:22 PM

I really doubt Pato will be sold, at least not next summer that is... Blue I don't know where you get your crazy news from, I doubt we'll be spending anywhere near half the amount you mentioned whether we sell Pato or not

As for the Pirlo rumours, I think the club want to renew, the wage issue is the only issue, or the injuries are more serious then we thought as someone mentioned above. But I really doubt that Pirlo wants to take a step down in his career at his age, he's still young compared to our other midfield oldies.

All I want to see is Nesta and Pirlo renewed and Pato getting an extension to cement his place at Milan and give the kid confidence since he's clearly not getting it from Allegri. The others I really don't care about at this point. We need to move on and the old midfield is still holding us back from doing so.

Aside from that a LB, another creative mid and a trequartista should be enough to take us to the next level for next season

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 24 2011, 07:40 PM

Blue was obviously high on something (that's what I asked him in Persian)

Posted by: acid911 Feb 24 2011, 07:49 PM

Oh, how could you do this to me. It was I who said it, a few post back. Silly old, Han!

Posted by: han2503 Feb 24 2011, 08:13 PM

You're just that forgetable

Posted by: acid911 Feb 24 2011, 08:23 PM

Deep down inside of me, I knew that. Good thing you didn't say forgettable, that would have been rude!

Posted by: Fishdoll Feb 24 2011, 08:47 PM

Penguins, you've been letting han get into the booze again, haven't you?

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 24 2011, 09:08 PM

Blue just invents stuff from time to time. Pirlo won't be going anywhere. At his age, a departure towards another big club would prove a failure for him. He'll eventually get his contract renewed and a wage reduction. As for Pato, just ignore any sort of rumor you might read or hear regarding him being sold. They only aim at disrupting his concentration and creating inexistent problems between him and Ibrahimovic. Plus, Italian journalists want him out because they want us to sign Balotelli.

However, Blue's right that we will be spending a lot this summer. I'd say Marchetti, Mexes and Ganso are practically ours, and I can also see Galliani snatching a midfielder and two fullbacks.

Posted by: Fishdoll Feb 24 2011, 09:13 PM

Well, I'm not sure about 'a lot', because it's been a very long time since we spent a lot (2001, anyone?). Mexes will be free if he comes - and I'm far from convinced by him - and I don't think Marchetti's going to be too expensive either. Ganso will cost $$ and assuming we actually get the fullbacks we so desperately need, I suspect they'll cost $$$ as well. (Note - I really don't think the Sergio Ramos rumor is anything but a journalistic invention. Cissokho? Seems like he got his teeth fixed so he may be more likely).

Posted by: Dracoris Feb 24 2011, 09:15 PM

I don't know, I heard fixing teeth can be quite the tricky thing to do

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 24 2011, 09:19 PM

Cissokho never had any teeth problems. Long story short: Galliani had agreed with Porto to purchase Cissokho for 15 million. However, when he was told, Berlusconi didn't allow the deal to happen, because he thought 15 million were too much for a fullback he had never heard of. So, Galliani invented the teeth problem and tried to snatch Cissokho on a loan with the right to purchase for next season. Porto didn't agree, and everything went to hell.

Posted by: Fishdoll Feb 24 2011, 09:29 PM

We know, X-Off. The teeth thing is a running joke.

Posted by: han2503 Feb 24 2011, 09:42 PM

Who cares!!!! Double T or no T you're still not someone that sticks to mind, Very Fogetttttable I say


Yep, we slip it in when he's not looking to get on acid's nerves


As Fishy said, Mexes and Marchetti won't cost that much. Ganso won't come cheap but we won't break the bank to get him. The FB positions need to be filled and I can see us spending some money over it as well as the central midfield area, especially if Seedorf, Rino and Ambro are not renewed, here's to hoping

Posted by: acid911 Feb 24 2011, 09:44 PM

A fine job you are doing, I say.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 24 2011, 10:09 PM

Gattuso's contract expires in 2012.

Posted by: han2503 Feb 24 2011, 10:13 PM

Oh yeah, I forgot they stretched it by 2 just like they did with Oddo's...

Posted by: Dracoris Feb 24 2011, 10:52 PM

I forgot to hit my sarcasm button

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 25 2011, 12:50 AM

Seedorf should stay as a backup, Rino can do whatever he wants, but Ambro should really get another chance. He was amazing during the Leo era and the last moments of Carlettos era too. This season he was bad, but due to injury problems and Allegri's poor understanding, playing him like he's some kind of Boateng or I don't know who...

He's our captain, I don't think we can get rid of him that easy.

Fullbacks and AM should be our main concern. Also, if Pippo does not come back, we should reinforce with a proper striker.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 25 2011, 12:53 AM

We don't need Seedorf anymore. Robinho/Boateng/Merkel can play in his position 10x better. I'd only keep one between Gattuso and Ambro, and personally I'd choose Ambro. But considering it's his contract and not Rino's that expires, it has to be Rino.

Posted by: Dracoris Feb 25 2011, 06:31 AM

Age 28: Rino > Ambro

Currently: Ambro > Rino

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Feb 25 2011, 07:12 AM

edited

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 25 2011, 09:30 AM

How pathetic (if it's true). who do they think they are? the mafia?

Posted by: han2503 Feb 25 2011, 11:31 AM

Read on FI yesterday Galliani saying that Pato will stay on for next season an he absolutely will not be sold. I'm choosing to believe him on that one, sorry blue

Posted by: dst Feb 25 2011, 11:32 AM

the mafia are their bitches!

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 25 2011, 05:00 PM

Goal.com/en

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 25 2011, 05:01 PM

Goal.com/en

Posted by: Dracoris Feb 25 2011, 07:51 PM

I would probably wet myself in public if we brought in Ramos.


Criscito-Silva-Nesta-Ramos. WHAT!!?!?!

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 25 2011, 07:56 PM

Let's work on Criscito. We could really use him.

Posted by: Fishdoll Feb 25 2011, 10:45 PM

I'm pretty sure your bladder's safe, Dracoris. I would be one shocked fish if Ramos left Madrid. I might even have to...oh, I dunno, rescind dst's cookie ban. Or something else really awful and icky.

Posted by: CHU-LIP Feb 26 2011, 03:26 PM

Let's work on both Sergio Ramos and a left-back like Criscito. We could really use both.

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 26 2011, 07:23 PM

I'd prefer Cissokho over Criscito. And Cassani on the right, if the Ramos rumors are nothing but rumors.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 27 2011, 12:17 AM

It's just the opposite with me. Criscito could be a bit cheaper (negotiations with Lyon never leave you satisfied) plus he's Italian.

Posted by: Bluesummers Feb 27 2011, 11:51 PM

criscito over cissokho for me. Criscito can play CB and he's a much more intelligent player. May not be as fast but his passing is of higher quality.

Both will be expensive as f*** though

Posted by: rip Feb 28 2011, 12:06 PM

goal.com

i think this guy would be a great addition to our team

Posted by: acid911 Feb 28 2011, 12:43 PM

Not bad. Cost effective solution, hard-working player, and can give ~3/4 years to the team!

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Feb 28 2011, 01:49 PM

if we get him for 5 million then there is no reason why not to get him. as mentioned by acid Cost effective solution, hard-working player. I think will be a great addition to the team.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 28 2011, 02:06 PM

I don't think it would be such a great deal. Why do we need an old player who's not even played Serie A football while at his peak Galatasary picked him?

Probably BS anyway.

Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Feb 28 2011, 02:11 PM

He faded at Man City after a few great seasons. Not sure what he would be like now though didn't Santos just recently sign him back? Can't see him leaving already.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 28 2011, 02:14 PM

Can't see him leaving at all for a big European club like Milan.

Posted by: Zed.D Feb 28 2011, 02:23 PM

Elano is a good player, but I'd rather we sign the next big thing than a soon to be 30 year old who didn't really set the world on fire in his best days.

Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Feb 28 2011, 02:50 PM

Because it's just that easy?

I forget footballers are robots and are not human beings any more. He's Brazilian, he's back in Brazil. He's just gone back no doubt family etc are over there that he hasn't seen in years whilst he's been in Europe. Can fluently speak the lingo, back at Santos (where he started), one of their main players and probably treated like a bit of a king over there.

Milan aren't that great at the moment, like it or not, the Italian League isn't that great of a pull it's streets behind La Liga & the EPL in terms of attractiveness. Elano has also played in Europe, he wouldn't have gone back to Brazil if he wanted to continue over here.

Posted by: anano1214 Feb 28 2011, 06:50 PM

Football Italia

Posted by: Rossoneri7 Feb 28 2011, 07:45 PM

This summer will be an emotional one ... We have a few of our champions going out of contract, and it will be rather difficult to assess how we will move in the market. Zlatan said something about a project that the club showed him when he arrived, and claimed that next season will be AC Milan's best season whereby they will prose a real threat. Very interesting to see how Galliani deals with this; where many key players for us might leave. As much as I like the idea of turning a new leaf, I'd very much appreciate Milan's senior players to stay on, at the very least to just set examples in training. They have been here through thick and thin for this club, so they deserve that much ... Yet I find it hard to overlook the rumors on Pirlo & Gattuso, I believe the both of them have already packed their bags. While Nesta will most likely hang-up his boots at the end of this season.

Posted by: han2503 Feb 28 2011, 08:02 PM

I really cannot accept the fact that Pirlo might leave. Galliani needs to get on an extension ASAP.

Same goes with Nesta, who said that he might stay on for another year

Posted by: CHU-LIP Feb 28 2011, 08:40 PM

What are the rumours on Gattuso? I always find it weird he gets mentioned since his contract isn't running out. You didn't mention Ambrosini, while his contract is running out. What's expected when it comes to him?

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 28 2011, 09:35 PM

This is the mentality that's kept us still for all these years. Old players are old, they need to leave.



No, the Russian club is actually willing to spend €10 million on him. It would be one heck of a deal.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 28 2011, 09:48 PM

Nice touch. No bias, really!

Posted by: X-Offender Feb 28 2011, 09:50 PM

Oh, I wouldn't expect anything else from you.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Feb 28 2011, 10:42 PM

Yep, that's me. Good we have both in here.

Posted by: Jack Bauer Mar 1 2011, 03:09 AM

+1. That's the same club that signed Roberto Carlos recently.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Mar 1 2011, 01:03 PM

Link: http://football-italia.net/mar01a.html

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Mar 1 2011, 01:20 PM

*facepalm so hard I've got my palm coming out of the rear of my skull*

Posted by: Fishdoll Mar 1 2011, 01:22 PM

No. Just...no. His form has been atrocious, starts or not. He comes with baggage (read: wife, agent, family) that's just nasty. And, well, haven't we learned yet how unwise it is to bring back stars who've left? Gullit and Sheva hardly set the place on fire the second time they were here.

(for what it's worth the italian language articles about this story today on tuttomercatoweb, eurosport, etc seem to think that it's Kaka who wants to return to Milan, not that Milan wants him back. This goes in hand with the fact that Kaka, yesterday, was castigated in the Spanish press with various unnamed teammates saying that it was like playing with 10 guys having him on the pitch).

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Mar 1 2011, 01:24 PM

Really? That part with his teammates, sounds a bit unlike him. He's always been a good team man. Maybe he's way too sanctimonious for FC Hedonism...I mean Real Madrid.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Mar 1 2011, 01:27 PM

As much as I like Kaka - I agree it would probably be best if we do not sign him again.

Time to build for the future.

Posted by: Fishdoll Mar 1 2011, 01:42 PM

Yep, really.

It isn't that they don't like him , it's that they think he's crap. And for the record - even though there's no evidence one way or the other - I'm not sure he's particularly well liked by teammates (or for that matter former teammates).

http://it.eurosport.yahoo.com/01032011/45/calciomercato-kaka-torna-milan-padre-ci-prova.html to Eurosport Italia article (translation of eurosport espana article).

Here's the relevant section of the article.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Mar 1 2011, 01:43 PM

http://football-italia.net/feb28y.html

Posted by: dst Mar 1 2011, 02:23 PM

Unnamed quotes? I think that's as fake as it gets. He's under-performing so some people want him out and that's an easy way to create the climate for it to happen.

Next, they're going to say it's his fault that RM are not winning the title...

Posted by: Fishdoll Mar 1 2011, 03:11 PM

He IS underperforming at Real. Whether the quotes are accurate or not (and after having looked a couple of places, I don't see names attached so yeah, prolly a fabrication), he's not playing at a level his prior play or pricetag indicate he's capable of. I suspect he'll be sold to an English club.

Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Mar 1 2011, 06:09 PM

Hasn't he been extremely unlucky with injuries?...

The only English club that will go for him is City. No one will pay big money for him over here, certainly as the only league he proved himself in was Serie A and he hasn't played particularly well in Europe for years. Unless Roman wants to dip in to his pocket and reunite Carlo & Kaka again.

Posted by: X-Offender Mar 1 2011, 07:36 PM

Only a few months ago, I wouldn't have thought twice about Kaka' returning. However, this summer we're rebuilding the team. Many old players will leave, and bringing back Kaka' would be a step back IMO. Let's focus on signing the next big thing instead i.e. Ganso, Lamela etc.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Mar 1 2011, 08:31 PM

not sure if carlo will be there but yea if he stays then Kaka will most likly join chelsea if he goes to england

Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Mar 2 2011, 03:26 AM

After tonight he might be

Nah, I think anything short of Carlo winning the EPL or CL will get him fired. If he does then we may very well be seeing Kaka in a Chelsea shirt, don't know who he'd replace though, Lampard perhaps?

Ballack never really managed to, at least if he goes to City he will most likely get a starting spot.

Posted by: Jack Bauer Mar 2 2011, 06:22 AM

http://www.corrieredellosport.it/Edicola.shtml

Corriere dello Sport says that Mexes will be ours next saeson.

Posted by: CrazyMilanFan Mar 2 2011, 08:42 AM

they are Rome based so i think this will probably happen.

it is even on mediaset http://www.sportmediaset.mediaset.it/mercato/calcioserieA/articoli/54589/mexes-ha-scelto-a-giugno-al-milan.shtml

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Mar 2 2011, 08:56 AM

Hmm. Well I suppose it's okay. Would have preferred we use the extra cash to buy a fullback for the left. I thought we were also chasing Sakho...

But Mexes is 28, and I think his wages are the only overhead.

Posted by: 11 ~ тäнvä Mar 2 2011, 02:15 PM

He is a very good defender, and I think that he was part of the transfer of Borriello to Roma. I don think that Galliani wanted to make a gift to Rossella Sensi, and I guess he asked Mexes back... just my opinion But I like him, is one of the best defenders in Italian Serie A, and if Nesta is decided to end his career in July because of his injuries, Philippe would be a very good replacement.
Anyway, going on following also Sakho and Sergio Ramos would be nice

Posted by: Milan Are Brilliant Mar 2 2011, 03:18 PM

Yeah, I like this signing (if it goes through). I know he's a bit of a flashy name but on a free and not that old I think it's a very good deal for us.

Posted by: kurtsimonw Mar 2 2011, 03:23 PM

So long as Silva doesn't end up playing midfield all the time.

Posted by: X-Offender Mar 2 2011, 03:32 PM

Mexes will be ours 99,9%. Every newspaper and website has reported the news today. Finally the quality backup we've all been waiting for all these years.

Posted by: Zed.D Mar 2 2011, 03:33 PM

I wouldn't mind Silva in midfield as long as it doesn't hurt us in the back!

Posted by: X-Offender Mar 2 2011, 03:41 PM

No no no, Thiago should always play as CB. IMO he's the best CB in Italy and one of the best in the world at the moment. No point in playing him in midfield, where he delivers only 50-60% of his qualities.

Posted by: 11 ~ тäнvä Mar 2 2011, 04:30 PM

I quote X-Offender, Thiago is actually on of bests in the whole Serie A and in Europe, in the midfield he is good too, but in defense he is PERFECT. Just think of the saving against Cavani in the last couple of minutes of Milan-Napoli. He can keep his position with an incredible instinct, it looks like he always knows where the ball is going!

Posted by: han2503 Mar 2 2011, 06:03 PM

I wouldn't call him a back up if Nesta retires...

Posted by: X-Offender Mar 2 2011, 06:24 PM

I doubt Nesta will retire.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Mar 2 2011, 07:39 PM

+1


+1

Posted by: Bluesummers Mar 3 2011, 11:42 AM

Question to all...



Are you guys happy with Allegri at the helm for next season or would you like to see a different coach?



---


In regards to kaka, I'm also in the group that thinks we need to move on and rebuild the team. Signing him would do nothing but take up space in our wage bill.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Mar 3 2011, 11:50 AM

If he wins the scudetto, I'd keep him. I'm very very pissed off at his CL performance. Not just the match against Spurs, but overall we've been disappointing and without pedigree.

But I'd lack to say it's a lack of experience and he'll pick up.

If he doesn't win the scudetto, then he MUST leave. We should try and get Spalletti or that new bloke..Boas.

Posted by: Bluesummers Mar 3 2011, 11:53 AM

hehe agreed.


Boas eh? Interesting choice by you


I agree though i'd like someone whose attack minded. Under leo, yes we lost game but it was at least enjoyable to watch milan. Now a-days it hurts to see milan play the dreaded long ball game.

Even carlo had a somewhat entertaining game. Certainly more than Allegri, thats forsure.

Posted by: Jack Sparrow Mar 3 2011, 11:58 AM

Meh...I read Leo's stats in a blog. In 15 games his team has scored 29 and conceded 19. He'll never win anything at this rate. He's just one forward line injury away from disaster.

No..Milan don't really play that much long ball. We're suffering coz we have no mid-field personnel, who can orchestrate stuff. Flamini, Rino are not really skilful box-to-box players...and the lack of decent fullbacks hurts us too.

I'm confident things will look different if/when Pirlo returns.

And Boas isn't like Mourinho. He's like Robson.

Nah...I like his style. He keeps quiet and his team plays well too.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Mar 3 2011, 01:04 PM

I'd be in for a new coach. My picks would be finally Tassotti (who probably does not want the job) or even Donadoni, but I wouldn't say no to Ancelotti or Lippi if that's still on the line.

Posted by: dst Mar 3 2011, 02:39 PM

I see no reason why we should change coach again. I can't see how Donadoni or Tasotti would be an improvement. I don't think Carletto and Milan would work well again and I can't see Lippi doing it either. I'm not impressed by Allegri but what has he done so wrong that makes you want to see him out? This is a much different team from last season so obviously they were not going to play together smoothly and they are still in first place and with a good record, it's not a fluke. As for the CL, I don't think we've got the players that thrive in this competition, unless you expect Ibra or Robinho to suddenly show up.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Mar 3 2011, 02:54 PM

Thing is, he's doin' okay but I see another Zaccheroni in him. I have a inside fear that he'll win us the scudetto and then stall us both in the league and CL. I don't think he's got it in him in the long run.

Posted by: X-Offender Mar 3 2011, 04:03 PM

With the team he'll have at disposal next season, I highly doubt that.

Posted by: dst Mar 3 2011, 04:12 PM

I don't think Mexes or Marchetti are going to make that big a difference... and they're not even certainly coming anyway... Ganso is inexperienced and we don't know if he's coming either. I doubt we're going to make any big moves especially if we win the scudetto.

Posted by: X-Offender Mar 3 2011, 04:25 PM

We already have a quality team. We only lack certain assets that don't allow us to express our full potential. Two quality fullbacks, one quality CB backup, a trequartista and possibly another DM. In the other sectors we're more than covered. And I'm certain we'll fill those holes this summer. Mexes is already taken, Braida is monitoring plenty of quality fullbacks, Ganso (who's top class from what experts say) is around the corner and maybe another midfielder will come too. I'm certain this signing campaign will be a hot one, as most newspapers are claiming day by day.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Mar 3 2011, 04:59 PM

Provided we do make the necessary transfers for next season, and no crucial exits - I can't see us not succeeding.

We will have a team to challenge on all fronts with the introduction of a new CB, WBs, CM, and depending on the situation with Amelia another GK as well.


EDIT: Forgot to press submit - but yea X-Off pretty much said what I did.

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Mar 3 2011, 05:18 PM

I say we keep him, he has done well on his first year and is still learning. It seems like big-club fans never beleive in development whether in regards to players or coaches. Considering in this same city with a bigger team and a more celebrated coach inter fucked up bad under Benitez, this only proves that serie A is a tough cookie to crack. Allegri has only lost 3 games in the league. He did so with a metamorphic approach as his actis have changed several times during the year to ajust to injuries. He is not quite as stubborn as he's made out to be. He has made "ballsy" outside of the box moves with playing Casano on the wing, Robinho & Boateng as AM, and thiago silva in Mid. As i pretty big Cagliari fan i must tell you he has been handed a completely different system in milan, and considering we are 5 points up and he has probably played every player on the roster twice, he is worthy of the post IMO. He is an attack minded coach and he has developed so-so players into quality starters. Now all he needs to do is pawn off what he doesn't want/need and coach a team he can fulfill his project with. There is ALOT of pulp on this squad and if there is one thing we can learn from mourinho, it's have a smaller group of players. I believe in Max, and with the CL not a priority, this year will offer him some experience going forward.

Posted by: TriniKing_CE Mar 3 2011, 05:58 PM

...

who?

Posted by: X-Offender Mar 3 2011, 06:51 PM

Allegri. Didn't you read the rest of his post?

Posted by: KillerMax Mar 3 2011, 07:05 PM

When you put it like that, it's hard to argue with. I did not know he has only lost 3 games in Serie A. Not bad at all. I have to say we often forget the amount of injuries we have suffered this season. In all honesty, we could have easily been 3rd right now and have a very legitimate reason for it too. Long term? I think Allegri has the potential to become a great. I've mostly been upset with him about the whole Ibra issue where I think he needs to calm down and I expect Allegri to put him in his place. I don't want Milan to = Ibra and his drama... I also think he has ignored PapaIcan'tspelltherestoulous for no real reason and played Bonera which has cost us points. In anyway, not every body will be happy with everything... EVER. So good luck to him and Forza Milan!

Posted by: Zed.D Mar 3 2011, 07:19 PM

Posted by: il_diavolo_mtl Mar 3 2011, 07:58 PM

i think the whole Ibra thing is pressure form above. He never shied away from benching players at cagliari. Berlu wants ppl to talk about his big purchase, rightfully so. As a big Papastathradoupolos (or wtv) fan I too was upset with how he dealt with it, but I think he's gone after this year. Also i like the fact he started 2 primavera players this year. I don't want to have the whole youth sucks/think of the future debate, but i can however tell you people at the primavera can now hope for more then being sold to a lower-table team. They have seen their peers' hard work gain them 1rst team action and will be more motivated to play hard.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Mar 3 2011, 10:04 PM

Zaccheroni had a prime Maldini, Costacurta, Albertini, Boban, Leonardo and a few others at his disposal. Still it happened. So I don't think it's that dubious.

Posted by: X-Offender Mar 3 2011, 10:59 PM

The first three, yes. Boban and Leonardo were in their 30s and past their prime. And if I remember correctly, they weren't exactly regulars. Besides, we already have a much stronger team than we did back then, which will be strengthened even further this summer. If we're going to compare Allegri and Zaccheroni, let's do it based on tactics and other arguments, not on the teams they had at disposal.

Posted by: Fillipo Simone Mar 3 2011, 11:11 PM

Let's. You added the squad talk into the discussion. I think Zaccheroni is better in terms of tactics, but considering all their characteristics, they both are very alike. And in the end, I think, they'll achieve exactly the same.

Posted by: X-Offender Mar 4 2011, 12:28 AM

You pwned me there.