Brocchi not expecting ‘spectacular’ derby as he picks apart Milan’s struggles | OneFootball

Christian Brocchi is not expecting many fireworks in the Coppa Italia derby, while he gave his thoughts on why AC Milan have struggled so much this season.

Milan and Inter will contest their fourth Derby della Madonnina of the season on Wednesday night at San Siro, in the third different competition. Despite having a generally dreadful campaign to this point, the derby has provided some positive moments for Milan.

They have won two and drawn one so far, meaning they are unbeaten. The victories included a late winner in the first league meeting, and an added-time goal to clinch the Supercoppa Italiana, the club’s 50th trophy.

However, the cup takes on some extra importance for the Rossoneri, because winning it guarantees a place in the Europa League. At present, it feels like the only hope of getting into Europe, given that Milan are ninth in the league.

Brocchi gave an interview to La Gazzetta dello Sport in view of tonight’s derby between Milan and Inter, the first leg of the Coppa Italia semi-final, and his comments were relayed by MilanPress.

What does the derby mean?

“It’s a game with a special flavour. Especially those that count towards the Scudetto. I was lucky enough to play in the Euro derby, in the semi-finals of the 2002-03 Champions League, and I can assure you that those were incredible.

“For Milan, given the moment, it’s a fundamental game, because they are detached from fourth place and have only one objective. For Inter it’s one of the four fronts on which they compete, if you also consider the Club World Cup.

“The Nerazzurri could forget about a possible elimination in the league or the Champions League, while the damage for the Rossoneri would be great. I don’t think it will be a spectacular, sparkling challenge full of goals.”

Who will be the decisive men?

“Saying Leao and Thuram would be ‘banal’, that’s why I choose Dimarco for Inter and Reijnders for Milan.”

What are your thoughts on Leao?

“He is a strong player, with qualities that are difficult to find. In a team context like Barcelona or Real, teams that have a consolidated squad, he could be an added value. At Milan everything cannot be on his shoulders and someone like Rafa cannot be left out.”

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

Why have Milan struggled so much this season?

“With so many changes it’s difficult to find consistency in performance. However, the Rossoneri squad is strong and in view of next season, if we want to find a department in which to make a signing, I’m aiming for the defence. In my opinion we need a European-level center back.”

You won the Coppa Italia with Milan in 2003…

“I remember it fondly because it was the culmination of a fantastic season, in which we won the Champions League against Juve. The Coppa Italia was then awarded in two games and we played the second after the final in Manchester.

“The 4-1 in the first leg at the Olimpico allowed us to take to the field more relaxed and we put… the icing on the cake. How did we manage to concentrate? Thanks to the strength of the group. We all knew we were important and we gave something to the team.”