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There's a really nice interview with Franco Baresi on Mediaset today. Here's Fishdoll's translation.
link to original
QUOTE
Did you believe Milan could win in Madrid?
-- Before there were few who had faith, but in Europe the Rossoneri have a fundamental quality. It's what makes them better.
What you feel?
--An immense joy, like when I played. A great victory that silenced the critics.
How is it that Milan has won 11 points in the second half?
--A little because the adversaries tire as they spend energy in the first half. The rhythm slows and quality and experience come forward - these are valued by Milan.
Why isn't Milan as good in the league as they are in Europe?
--Against quality opposition, Milan exalts more. In Italy, it's more difficult against closed defenses.
Ronaldinho's improving. How much can he give?
--I've always been pro-Dinho. If he's doing well, he has more than the others. I love his passes. But he shouldn't always be under examination. Milan can't do without him; he and Pato should be continually supported.
You are a great defender, why are there fewer strong ones today?
--There's less choice. Now the foreign defenders command. There's less space for ours.
Your picks for the scudetto?
--Inter, Juve, and Milan if the Rossoneri have complete faith in themselves. But Inter's game needs to grow and Juve needs to improve.
And the others?
--Samp could be a big surprise. I like Genoa and keep an eye on Fiorentina.
Turnover, with squads of 30-31 players is a cause of the crisis of young players who aren't fielded?
--If you want to win, you shouldn't change the lineup a lot and naturally the young pay for this handicap.
Give a vote to Balotelli.
--He's a great player. Quality-wise, he's a phenomenon. He needs to discipline himself and mature. Champions are the Maldinis, who last long, have consistent performances and an exemplary behavior.
Would you call up Cassano?
--I love fantasy, the inventive ones who put on a show. It's difficult to mark guys like Cassano.
Juve-Samp: who will win?
--Juve
Napoli-Milan: who risks more?
--There's danger for both. Mazzarri has motivated his players. If they never let their guard down, Milan is ready to win.
Who will win the Champions League?
-Chelsea is favourite, they have all the pieces.
And the World Cup?
--Favorites are Brazil, Italy, Spain, and Argentina. With England capable of being a big surprise.
If you played today, which strikers would you fear most?
--Pato and Eto'o, technical and fast.
Tassotti, Costacurta, Baresi, Maldini: a quartet that could have imitators?
--We had the luck to find each other together all at around 25 years old and to last for a decade.