AC MILAN NEWS

Inzaghi warns milan

2011-11-13T06:37:00.000-08:00

The veteran striker is now feeling surplus to requirements.

“I really wanted to play the whole match, as I haven’t done that in probably over a year,” he told MilanNews. “I am happy and it was tough, but the most important thing was to get some fuel in the engine. I preferred to play with the youth team, as a competitive match is different to a training session.

“I train hard and try to ensure I am ready. I am relaxed and very hungry to get back to the top level, because I still enjoy my football. Playing makes me feel happy.

“Today it felt like going back to 20 years ago when I was at Piacenza, going to college and eating in the lunch hall. I even went to a pre-match training camp, because that’s what I’m like. I want to feel useful.

“My dream is to end my career at Milan and that could well happen, but we have to see if they still need me,” continued Inzaghi.

“I want to continue as long as I feel important. I would hate for others to tell me to stop, as I want it to be my decision. We’ll see what happens in the next two months, because I want to be a protagonist.

“If I can’t do it at Milan, then I can try to achieve that elsewhere. As I said, my dream is to end my career with Milan, but we have to see if they still need me.”

Silva invites Hamsik to Milan

2011-09-20T05:35:00.000-07:00

Milan defender Thiago Silva has asked Napoli star Marek Hamsik to join him at San Siro.
The Rossoneri have been linked with a move for Slovakian midfielder and Silva is hoping Hamsik will eventually end up at San Siro.
“It would be so much better if Hamsik were playing this game with a Rossoneri jersey,” smiled Thiago Silva in La Gazzetta dello Sport.
“He has incredible technique and class. I hope he can be my Milan teammate next season.”
The Brazilian defender was then quizzed on the latest interest from Barcelona.
“I personally did not say no to anybody, but that’s because I was never contacted.
“In any case, I consider it unfair to reject any option out of hand, as you never know what could happen in future. I did the same in Brazil.”

Anzhi still keen on Gattuso

2011-09-20T05:32:00.000-07:00

The agent of Milan midfielder Gennaro Gattuso has revealed that Russian side Anzhi are still keen on his client.

The veteran midfielder considered an offer from Anzhi in the summer transfer window, but ultimately decided to remain at San Siro.

However, his agent Andrea D’Amico admits the Russians are still interested in Gattuso.

“It’s still early and players out of contract can start negotiations next year,” Andrea D’Amico told Sport Italia.

“The interest of Anzhi was there before and even now, but so far there have been no developments, so we’ll talk with AC Milan and we’ll see.

“Rino has been there for many years and every time we’ve done the contract after a short talk with (Adriano Galliani).

“We’ll see what he plans, depending on the demands, Rino is very calm.”

GOOD NEWS - huntelaar won't leave milan

2010-08-03T08:09:00.000-07:00

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar's agent Arnold Oosterveer is convinced his client will not leave Milan during the summer transfer window.

The striker has been tipped for a Premier League future, but his agent feels that door is not open.

Huntelaar was linked with Tottenham as part of a reported deal involving Milan target Giovanni Dos Santos, but Oosterveer remained firm in his response.

"There has been no request from any Premier League club. I have read the papers, but it's just rumours," he told Sport.co.uk.

"He is happy at Milan and they are happy with him. The Rossoneri want to keep him, and he wants to stay.

Roma Have Not Contacted Milan For Marek Jankulovski

2010-08-03T08:07:00.000-07:00

Milan defender Marek Jankulovski's spokesman says he is unaware of a reported interest from Roma, but maintains there is scope for development in relation to the player's future.

Jankulovski's deal expires at the end of next season, but Milan have not moved to offer him a new deal. On Monday he was linked with Roma as Claudio Ranieri is looking for an alternative to John Arne Riise at left-back.

However, a spokesman for the defender told Forzaroma.info that there was no contact from Roma, though he did acknowlege the club could be fitting for him.

"At the moment we have not received any contact from the Giallorossi, but we cannot exclude that there will be positive developments," said the spokesman.

"What we have to do is understand what his future will be. We have to speak with Milan. It's nice to hear of Roma's interest as they are a great club, but I cannot predict that he will go there."

Milan To Promote Youth Team Players Rather Than Spend On Major Transfers - Reports

2010-08-03T08:04:00.000-07:00

Milan's policies to curb spending have left coach Massimiliano Allegri facing the sharp end of cuts and, according to Tuttosport, he will promote from within rather than spend on new recruits.

Rodney Strasser, Alexander Merkel, Simone Verdi and Giacomo Beretta are expected to make the step up and join the first team.

Midfielders Strasser and Merkel have impressed during pre-season, the former has already made his Serie A debut and at 20-year-old offers Allegri promise.

Verdi and Beretta may find their space despite the difficulty of breaking into an attacking line-up which includes Klaas-Jan Huntelaar, Ronaldinho, Alexandre Pato, Filippo Inzaghi and Marco Borriello.

La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Verdi is likely to be used as back-up for Ronaldinho, who is currently recovering from injury. He has impressed Allegri this summer and is likely to get more of a chance to show his class in the league.

from goal.com

AC Milan Win on TIM TROPHY CUP

2008-07-29T12:53:00.000-07:00

TIM TROPHY: JUVENTUS-MILAN 4-6

TURIN - Juventus-Milan finished 4-6 after penalties in the first of three friendlies during the 8th edition of the Tim Trophy. After the first 45 minutes these were the goalscorers: 7' Seedorf (M), 8' Trezeguet (J), 11' Marchionni (J), 42' Seedorf (M). For the Rossoneri the penalties were scored by Kakà, Pirlo, Jankulovski, Paloschi.

CLARENCE SEEDORF: 'It went well'

TURIN - Here are the declarations made by Clarence Seedorf, who scored a brace in the match against Juventus in the 8th edition of the Tim Trophy: "It went well. All teams are doing the preparations for the new season so it's not easy to be physically in shape right away, you need at least 10 minutes. But 4 goals in 45 minutes is a good average."

source : acmilan.com

TIM TROPHY NEWS

2008-07-29T12:47:00.000-07:00

TIM TROPHY: FORMATIONS OF JUVENTUS-MILAN

JUVENTUS: Buffon; Grygera, Chiellini, Mellberg, Molinaro; Marchionni, Sissoko, Tiago, Nedved; Trezeguet, Iaquinta.
MILAN: Kalac; Zambrotta, Bonera, Kaladze, Jankulovski; Brocchi, Pirlo, Ambrosini; Seedorf, Kakà; Paloschi.

TROFEO TIM: 22 ROSSONERI PLAYERS CALLED-UP

MILAN - These are the called-up players of Ancelotti, with their respective shirt numbers, for the Trofeo Tim in program tomorrow in Turin: Dida 1, Kalac 16, Abbiati 12, Antonini 77, Bonera 25, Digao 31, Favalli 19, Jankulovski 18, Kaladze 4, Oddo 2, Simic 17, Zambrotta 15, Ambrosini 23, Brocchi 32, Flamini 84, Gattuso 8, Pirlo 21, Strasser 51, Osuji 58, Kakà 22, Paloschi 43, Seedorf 10

TIM TROPHY: TIMES AND MATCHES

MILAN - On Tuesday 29 July at 20.30 the 8th edition of the Tim Trophy will take place at the Olympic stadium of Turin. As usual, Milan, Juventus and Inter will participate to the triangular tournament, with three games of 45 minutes each and penalties in case of a draw in normal time. This is the schedule: Match 1: Milan-Juventus; Match 2: Loser match 1-Inter; Match 3: Winner match 1-Inter.

Pirlo pledges to end career with AC Milan

2008-07-29T12:32:00.000-07:00

The 29-year-old rejected the opportunity to move to England or Spain this summer, with reports suggesting Chelsea, Barcelona and Real Madrid had all made inquiries, but he insists he plans to retire wearing the Rossoneri colors.

'I am happy at AC Milan,' said Pirlo. 'I have a long contract and I don't think there is a better team than this one.

'Milan is one of the strongest clubs and I hope to end my career with them.

'I have two years left on my contract and I hope to renew it for many more years.'

Meanwhile, Milan striker Marco Borriello could miss the start of the Serie A campaign because of a knee injury.

Borriello, who has returned to the Rossoneri this summer having played on loan at Genoa last season, suffered the injury in Saturday's training session.

A club statement read: 'Marco Borriello has undergone an MRI (scan) on his right knee.

'The player will travel to Antwerp on Wednesday to see specialist Marc Martens.'

Borriello was in great form for Genoa last season, notching 19 goals to finish as the third top scorer in Serie A, which won him a place in Italy's Euro 2008 squad.

Initial fears are that he will be out of action for at least six weeks, wrecking his chances of making an early impact on his return to Milan.

Coach Report

2008-07-29T12:20:00.000-07:00

Ancelotti defines the Trofeo Tim as a `friendly but always motivating´ appointment. He will have Kaka, Seedorf and Paloschi available. Alberto stays with us. The injured players? Problems which can occur.

INJURED PLAYERS AND ATTACKERS

´These are problems which can occur during the pre-season training. I´m just sorry that some player interrupts the preparation. The attack is the department which requires most work to make the mechanisms function.´

´Paloschi will stay with us, we never thought of selling him. Until it will be necessary, he will remain with us. He could even remain with us until the end of the year. His stay to us is not tied to Borriello´s injury.´

TROFEO TIM

´Nesta is not training right now, but he is recovering. The others are quite fine. Starting from Kaka. Ricky is ready and will be readz to play, even both games. With regards to the national team plazers, they could at most play one. For the attack I will have Paloschi, Seedorf and Ricky available. Nesta, Maldini, Inzaghi and Borriello will stay at home.

´Tomorrow´s games are just friendlies, but when you face teams like Juve and Inter thez are never really as such. They are important and motivating games.´

GOALKEEPERS

´Dida is working well, he recovered, he is doing a preparation program to avoid any falls, he could be recovered for the friendly game against Manchester.

´With regards to hierarchies, we shall evaluate at the start of the season.´

DINHO AND THE OLYMPICS

´In reality, seeing and considering that last year he did not play much, it can be useful for him playing at the Olympics to improve his form. Surely, when he arrived at Milanello, he was not at hundred percent, so he will find the best condition. Also, him and Pato never played together. The Games can help them find the right connection.´

PRE-SEASON AND THE CALENDAR

´I didn´t really take much care about the draw and the calendar. From some point of views it´s fine, for others it is a bit complicated. However, surely nothing changes the fact that there is the derby in the fifth matchday.

´The pre-season is not verz different from that of last years, the objective is to be ready for the start of the season.´

MILAN AND SHEVCHENKO

´What I will tell Sheva in Moscow? I will wish him good luck for the season. The rumours about Sampdoria´s interest? I don´t think he wants to return to another Italian team.

´Buffon said that Milan is the favourite team for the Scudetto? If everzone gives their best we could really be so. We must be good enough to get the best out of every player.´

Ronaldinho happy

2008-07-25T15:26:00.000-07:00

Ronaldinho scored 70 goals in 145 appearances for Barcelona, helping them win the Spanish championship in 2005 and 2006 as well as the 2006 Champions League.

But after a dip in form last season, attributed by some to his penchant for late-night partying, he was deemed surplus to requirements by the Spanish giants and AC Milan signed him last week for an estimated 30 million dollars.

Olympic coach Dunga, who is also coach of the national team, said the two-time World Player of the Year finally seemed happy.

"Ronaldinho is a very important member of our squad and he is recovering from his problems," he said here, where Brazil are training ahead of the Beijing Olympics.

"The most important thing is that he is happy and is smiling again.

That's made things easier for us.

The 28-year-old is one Dunga's over-age players for the Olympics.

Barcelona had initially refused to release him but AC Milan gave the go-ahead and the Games will provide a global platform for him to once again shine.

At international level he has yet to recover from his anti-climactic performance at the World Cup in Germany in 2006, and since then he has seen new Milan teammate Kaka usurp his position as Brazil's star man.

But 26-year-old Kaka, linked with a move to Chelsea this week, will not be in Beijing after the Italian club refused to release him.

Brazil captured the Olympic silver medal in the 1984 and 1988 Olympics, and the bronze medal in the 1996 Games, but has yet to strike gold.

AC Milan: No offers made during talks with Chelsea about Shevchenko for Kaka

2008-07-22T10:13:00.000-07:00

MILAN, Italy — AC Milan has held talks with Chelsea about buying Andriy Shevchenko and selling Kaka, but said no offer has been made.

Brazil playmaker Kaka has been linked with a move to the Blues, with his spokesman saying that a "formal proposal" had been made.

But after meeting Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, Milan vice president insisted that Kaka is "happy" at the Italian club.

"The offers for Kaka are only in the newspapers and they make up stories," Galliani told the club website. "Today there are talks of a euro150 million (US$239 million) offer and tomorrow it will be euro200 million ($318 million).

"Nothing is true, neither from Chelsea nor from any other club have we received that kind of offer."

Galliani asked Abramovich about bringing Shevchenko, the Ukraine striker, back to Milan.

"I was on Abramovich's boat," Galliani said. "It's true that he has had me as his guest and that I asked him for Shevchenko and he asked me for Kaka.

"But it finished 0-0 as we told him no for Ricky (Kaka) and they said no for Andriy. In any case there was no mention of numbers."

Ronaldinho picks shirt number “80? at AC Milan

2008-07-22T10:11:00.000-07:00

AC Milan’s new signing and superstar Ronaldinho will wear shirt number 80 at AC Milan, the club said on Monday.

The Brazilian football star, twice the world player of the year, chose this number beacause it corresponds with his birth year 1980.

In Barcelona he wore shirt number 10, but that shirt is currently held by Dutch midfielder Clarence Seedorf. According to Milan’s vice-president Adriano Galliani, it was never discussed that Seedorf would have to give up his shirt to Ronaldinho.

“We’ve never asked a player to give up his number and we won’t do it this time,” said Galliani. “That would show a lack of respect.”

Adidas has revelaed that they have already received 11,000 pre-orders for replica Ronaldinho shirts.

[Source: Aftonbladet, FIFA]

Another Transfer issues????

2008-07-22T10:08:00.000-07:00

Rooney in shock AC Milan Move

Reports have emerged that Man Utd and England striker W.Rooney has been targeted by AC Milan. Milan had previously been linked with Adebayor and Drogba, but now they have turned their attention towards Rooney.
The hitman is valued at $30 million and it looks certain that Milan will be bidding on the striker in few days.
However, Ronaldo has had a "U-turn", and will be at in EPL this season.

2008-07-15T17:31:00.000-07:00

RONALDINHO: A.C.MILAN OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

2008-07-15T17:18:00.000-07:00

AC Milan and FC Barcelona have reached an agreement for the transfer of Ronaldinho to the Rossoneri's club. Tomorrow the player will be in Milan for the medical and to sign the contract which will tie him to Milan until June 30th 2011.

acmilan.com

Ronaldinho to sign for AC Milan!!!!!

2008-07-15T17:15:00.000-07:00

Manchester City have lost out to Italian side AC Milan in the race to sign Barcelona playmaker Ronaldinho.

"AC Milan and Barcelona have reached an agreement in principle over the transfer of Ronaldinho," the Serie A club said on their website.

"The player will be in Milan on Wednesday to undergo a medical and sign a contract that will keep him at Milan until 30 June 2011."

City had reportedly bid £25.5m for the 28-year-old Brazilian.

But Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport reported on its website that Milan will pay Spanish side Barcelona just £14.6m for his services, with the figure likely to be increased by performance-related bonuses.

Milan chief executive Adriano Galliani has been in Barcelona for talks with the club and the player for two days.

The two-time Fifa World Player of the Year's time at Barcelona effectively came to an end in June when new manager Pep Guardiola announced the playmaker was surplus to requirements.

Nevertheless, the Catalans were not prepared to release Ronaldinho to join Dunga's Brazil squad for next month's Beijing Olympics.

Ronaldinho helped Barcelona win back-to-back Spanish league titles (2004-05, 2005-06) and the Champions League in 2006, but failed to cement a regular place in the starting XI last season because of injury and fitness issues.

SUN: PALOSCHI IN UNDER 19 TOP 10

2008-07-15T01:12:00.000-07:00

Today English tabloid 'The Sun' compiled a special Top Ten of ten Under 19 talents to follow carefully during the European championships held in the Czech Republic. The only Italian in the list is Alberto Paloschi, second behind Sinclair of Chelsea. The young Milan striker precedes the Greek Sotiris Ninis and the Spaniard Fran Merida. In the presentation, The Sun reminds of his debut with the Milan shirt, when he scored a goal just 18 seconds after coming on.

Here's news about Ronaldinho transfer issues

2008-07-15T00:41:00.000-07:00

Barca wait on Ronaldinho decision

Ronaldinho is expected to decide his future in the next 72 hours after discussions with Barcelona.
Manchester City appear favourites to sign him from the Nou Camp outfit after reportedly tabling a £25.5m bid, while AC Milan are also in the hunt.
Barcelona said: "The two sides agreed to allow two or three days to finalise the player's move to one of the clubs interested in landing the Brazilian." If no deal is tied up in that time he will resume training with Barca.
Earlier, the Spanish club's president Joan Laporta told Catalunya Radio: "Ronaldinho and his agent have two interesting proposals and they are leaning more towards the one from City." However, BBC Sport understands that AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani is in Barcelona to attempt to convince Ronaldinho to choose the San Siro over the City of Manchester stadium.
The two-time Fifa World Player of the Year was not present on Monday morning to start pre-season fitness tests under new Barca coach Pep Guardiola, leading to speculation that talks about his future were set to take place with Milan.
His time at the Spanish giants effectively came to an end in June when Guardiola announced the playmaker was surplus to requirements.
Nevertheless, the Catalans were not prepared to release Ronaldinho to join Dunga's Brazil squad for next month's Beijing Olympics.
Ronaldinho helped the Nou Camp club win back-to-back Spanish league titles (2004-05, 2005-06) and the Champions League in 2006, but failed to cement a regular place in the starting XI last season because of injury and fitness issues.

Manchester City have launched a £25.5 million bid to hijack AC Milan's move for Ronaldinho

Barcelona president Joan Laporta last night confirmed the Eastlands outfit were now locked in a head to head battle with the Italian giants for the Brazil playmaker.
And City hopes of landing the Brazilian are growing after promising a deal that dwarfs the cash being dangled by the Serie A outfit.
The Premier League club's bid is far in excess of the £12 million on offer from Milan.
And City's promise of a £200,000 per week salary is twice the amount Ronaldinho could earn at the San Siro. Ronaldinho was expected back in Spain yesterday to thrash out his future after Barca coach Pep Guardiola confirmed the player was surplus to requirements.
So far the South American has made no secret of the fact he would prefer a switch to Italy and Barca will be hoping City's move will trigger a bigger offer from Milan.
A City spokesperson yesterday said: "A bid has been made and the paperwork has been received. But at this stage there is still no more than a 50-50 chance of the transfer

Ronaldinho get closer to MILAN

2008-07-12T17:37:00.000-07:00

AC Milan are on the brink of completing their purchase of Barcelona's Brazilian playmaker Ronaldinho, the Italian press reported on Saturday.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport an agreement has been reached between AC Milan's vice-president Adriano Galliano and Barcelona president Joan Laporta for a fee of 15 million euros, with Ronaldinho set to sign a two-year contract to 2010 worth 6.5 million euros per year.

It will be a major coup for the 2007 European Champions who are still licking their wounds after failing to reach the 2008-09 Champions League and needed a big signing to signal their intent for next season.

The club will also be delighted with the price that they have negotiated for a player they have been tracking for over a year, with the final total 20 million euros lower than Barcelona's initial request of 35 million euros.

Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti is expected to pair him in an all-Brazilian attacking trident, along with Kaka and their young sensation, Alexander Pato.

The former AC Milan and Roma midfielder will have high hopes for a player who hit 70 goals in 149 matches at the Nou Camp and helped Barcelona to the 2006 Champions League title.

There was no mention made as to whether Ronaldinho will be able to take his place as part of Brazil's squad for the Beijing Olympic Games.

He was initially named in the 18-man squad before new Barcelona coach Josep Guardiola refused to release him.

Arsenal 'offer Adebayor to Milan'

2008-07-09T04:38:00.000-07:00

AC Milan claim Arsenal are ready to sell Emmanuel Adebayor, a month after insisting he was not available. The Gunners told Milan on 13 June that the striker, 24, was not for sale. But Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani revealed the Gunners have since written to the Italian club to say they have changed their position. Galliani told Italian TV station Antenna 3: "I have a letter from Arsenal that says 'we will consider a deal if it still interests you'." However, the clubs still need to agree a fee, with Milan unwilling to meet Arsenal's £36m valuation of the Togo international.

Galliani says he has spoken to Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger about a deal but that they are "divided" on the player's value. Milan said in June that Adebayor was their "sole transfer target" of the summer, although they later said they could not afford him.

After selling Alberto Gilardino to Fiorentina and with Ronaldo out of action because of a serious knee injury, Milan have made signing a striker their top priority, although Barcelona also covet Adebayor, who scored 30 goals in 48 games last season.

"If Adebayor decides to leave, Milan definitely want him but it is clear that if an offer arrives from Barcelona it would be difficult for him to say no," Galliani added.

HUGE OFFER FOR KAKA FROM CHELSEA

2008-07-06T07:32:00.000-07:00

European and World Footballer of the Year Kaka has consistently been the subject of multi-million pound bids from Chelsea and Real Madrid over the past few years, however Milan have repeatedly stated that the Brazilian is not for sale.

Galliani has revealed that the Rossoneri have received yet another huge offer for their star player.

"For Kaka, a really big offer has arrived from Chelsea," said Galliani to La Stampa, before also revealing that their had been a number of offers for midfield creator Andrea Pirlo.

"For Pirlo, there have been many requests. As for him, neither Pirlo nor his agent have come in to my office asking for an improvement in his salary."

The 29-year-old’s agent was quoted in the press as saying that his client deserved to be paid the same amount of money as Kaka.

The Brazilian currently earns a reported €7.5m a year, while the Italian, despite being a virtual irreplaceable figure at the club, picks up almost half of this, earning €4m.

goal.com

Ronaldo out of AC Milan

2008-07-04T01:54:00.000-07:00

Ronaldo, named MVP at last 2002 Korea-Japan FIFA World Cup, is a free player since his deal with AC Milan expired last Monday.

However, the Brazilian striker is only focused on recovering from a left-knee surgery he underwent last February, agent Felipe Bruno said from Brazil.

According to his spokesperson, AC Milan refused to start talks with Ronaldo regarding an eventual renewal, but they are in touch with 31-year-old ace in order to know about his recovery. Anyway, a resume in the talks after treatment are not ruled out.

Ronaldo, who decided to get away from France to escape from the press and be closer to his girlfriend, said he might return to the pitch by November.

The Brazilian press highlighted the fact that this is the first time the international striker is unemployed since his career debut at Cruzeiro.

The only team which publicly announced their interest in signing him were Flamengo, current Brasileirao leader; lately, Ronaldo admitted his admiration for the team.

AC Milan quit Adebayor race after refusing Arsenal's £35m price tag

2008-07-04T01:42:00.000-07:00

AC MILAN last night pulled out of the race to sign Emmanuel Adebayor after claiming Arsenal's £35million price tag has left Barcelona and Chelsea fighting it out for his signature.

Barca have already had a £25m bid turned down and Chelsea could launch a raid on their London rivals to get Adebayor as a ready-made replacement for Didier Drogba if he ends up quitting Stamford Bridge this summer.

Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani said: "Adebayor is overridden by continuous requests for £35m - these figures are impossible for clubs in Italy.

"When big clubs like Barcelona and Chelsea arrive it is impossible to compete because they have a much more advantageous fiscal situation."

Milan had been leading the chase for Adebayor, who has three years left on the £40,000-a-week deal he signed last summer but Arsenal are determined not to sell the Togo striker on the cheap until they have a replacement, with Blackburn's Roque Santa Cruz top of their hitlist.

dailyrecord.co.uk

ZAMBROTTA: "At Milan with enthusiasm"

2008-07-04T01:40:00.000-07:00

Gianluca Zambrotta expressed his enthusiasm for the new experience at Milan which is about to start: 'A fascinating adventure awaits me at Milan - he told Corriere Canadese - I return to Italy at a great club. In Spain I experienced two very positive years: we did not reach the objectives we aimed for, but we were unlucky.' On his former team mate Ronaldinho: 'He's a great player. Lately he's had some problems but he's always able to make the difference. He's already given a lot to football, and he can still be decisive.'

FIGC: SECOND NON-EU PLAYER ALLOWED

2008-07-04T01:35:00.000-07:00

From now on clubs will be allowed to have two non-EU players in their squad. This was decided by the Federal Council which reunited today in Rome.

ALESSANDRO COSTACURTA SUCCESFUL AT EXAM

2008-07-04T01:29:00.000-07:00

Alessandro Costacurta was promoted for the exam of the professional coaches master of the Uefa first category with 110 marks. Maximum votes as announced by the FIGC technical sector. The former Rossoneri's defender discussed a thesis on the coach and the management of human resources.

acmilan.com

Adebayor Talks Up Milan Move

2008-06-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

Emmanuel Adebayor is ready to forget his promise to stay at Arsenal next season and push for a big-money move to AC Milan.

On Friday afternoon the Togo striker, who scored 30 times for the Gunners last season, pledged his future to the Barclays Premier League club, insisting: "I have three more years (on my) contract so no matter what I have to stay. I'm staying at Arsenal."

But just minutes afterwards, in a briefing with the written press in Vienna, Adebayor once again hinted strongly that he would demand a transfer to the San Siro in showdown talks with manager Arsene Wenger next week.

"I had a dream of playing for Arsenal, and Arsenal are one of the loveliest clubs in the world," he said.

"When I go back to Africa it is obvious that a lot of people love the club. But now I have a chance of playing with one of the biggest clubs in the world."

Adebayor added: "I haven't had a chance to speak to the manager yet. But we will sit down next week and decide what is good for my career.

"We will have to meet with the manager before anything can be decided. But, as you know better than anyone, a lot of teams want me to play for them.

"It will not be a difficult decision. I'm just going to sit down with my agent and with my family and decide what is good for my career."

Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf believes Adebayor has already made up his mind.

He told Setanta Sports News: "When I spoke with him I said 'I'm waiting for you'. Let's see what will happen.

"He already said he would come, but it depends now on Arsenal.

"If he leaves Arsenal, it's a done deal. He comes to Milan."

Whatever the outcome, Adebayor insists money would never be a motivating factor if he were to move clubs.

Arsenal would stand to make a substantial profit if they were to sell the striker, and Adebayor himself would also expect to see his wages increase.

However, the former Monaco striker said: "When I was young I had a dream to be a good footballer and play for a big team.

"I was born in Togo so I never cared about playing for money, my happiness was to play to enjoy myself. That's what I've been doing until now.

"You can see people changing clubs because of money, because they want a change of atmosphere or to get their names in the big leagues. I just play football to enjoy myself. I play because I love it."

2008-06-27T08:54:00.000-07:00

DOMINO EFFECT (Galliani transfer isuues declaration)

2008-06-27T08:41:00.000-07:00

"Adebayor? It depends on Arsenal. If Arsenal don't let him go, Adebayor still has two years on his contract, but if they ask huge amounts for him it's over. Otherwise it's not over, but nothing's for sure yet. Morabito is right when he says that Milan are after Adebayor and no one else at the moment, it's true, but that doesn't mean it stays like that until september 1st, the last day of the transfer window. But it remains to be seen what happens in this ballet of strikers, Eto'o, Ronaldinho, Adebayor, Drogba, how they will move because sometimes there's a domino effect and sometimes there isn't.

I think the fans should be grateful not to the fan Galliani, but to President Berlusconi who, through his Fininvest company, continues to pour money into this club. He's been doing that for 22 years and he transformed a club who was on trial and relegated twice to Serie B in the 80s, into the most title-winning club in the world."

acmilan.com

Ronaldinho dreaming of Milan

2008-06-26T01:06:00.000-07:00

MANCHESTER City’s hopes of signing Ronaldinho have taken a blow with his agent claiming the Brazilian star wants to join AC Milan. Blues owner Thaksin Shinawatra has made the Barcelona playmaker his number one priority and has been tracking him all summer. City are prepared to make him the highest paid player in the world, offering as much as £180,000 a week to lure him to Eastlands. Milan have baulked at such figures, but it seems Ronaldinho’s heart is still set on a move to Serie A. His agent Roberto De Assis said: "We are working to take the best player in the world to the greatest club in the world. "We have always had an excellent rapport with Milan and are in constant contact. "The chances of Ronaldinho playing with a Rossoneri jersey this coming season remain the same as they were a few months ago." Ronaldinho looks certain to leave Barcelona this summer with new manager Josep Guardiola telling him he is surplus to requirements. City appear to be the only club willing to meet his financial demands, with Milan turning their attention to Arsenal’s Emanuel Adebayor. It remains to be seen if the 28-year-old is prepared to lower his financial expectations to secure his dream move or opt for a more lucrative move to City.

AC Milan fans 'angry' over Didier Drogba link

2008-06-03T10:48:00.000-07:00

The president of AC Milan, Adriano Galliani, has claimed that talks with Drogba are already at an advanced stage, suggesting that AC Milan's coach, Carlo Ancelotti, was keen on signing the 30-year-old.
Milan man? Both AC and Inter would like Chelsea's Didier Drogba to join their squads next season

According to the Daily Express newspaper, fans on AC Milan internet forums have expressed their displeasure at the suggestion, with one apparently writing: "Milan have a fair play team and we don't need a diver."

The report says that fans are "besieging" websites, saying that Drogba was unwanted at AC Milan.

Drogba has regularly been linked to both the Milan-based Serie A sides, and has stated his desire to play for one of the two pedigree Italian teams.

However, with Jose Mourinho's appointment to Inter Milan confirmed this week, it appeared that Inter would have the advantage when it came to signing the Ivory Coast international.

Drogba is known to be close to the former Chelsea manager and was highly vocal in expressing his desire to move shortly after Mourinho's departure from Stamford Bridge.

AC Milan's statement about Drogba has been construed in some quarters as a deliberate challenge to the Portuguese manager as he begins his new role at their big local rivals.

Whatever the truth, it seems increasingly likely that Drogba will soon be swapping his current London club for a Milan side.

Sheva? It Depends On Him - Galliani

2008-06-01T10:48:00.000-07:00

According to some rumours, Andriy Shevchenko was already on the verge of becoming a Milan player again. But it seems the chances of seeing the Chelsea striker back in a red and black shirt are more remote than expected.

The player himself is keeping his lips sealed on the matter. A lot also depends on who Chelsea appoint as their new manager after the sacking of Avram Grant. On their part, Milan seem to have a lot of other issues to worry about before they can start making serious plans to bring back their "lost son".

Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani had this to say on the matter: "Shevchenko? I don't know. It depends on him... We often talk with Chelsea, but there is no news on Sheva."

Between 1999 and 2006, Shevchenko wrote himself into the Milan history books by winning the Golden Ball, scoring 127 goals along the way, and picking up a host of national and international trophies with the Rossoneri.

Galliani Confirms Gourcuff - Bordeaux Loan (not official)

2008-06-01T10:43:00.000-07:00

The Rossoneri signed the Frenchman from Rennes in 2006 but since then he has only made 37 appearances as he has largely been kept out of the side by Kaka.

Galliani has now confirmed that the attacking midfielder will be sent out on loan Bordeaux to allow him more first team football.

“Nothing is official just yet but Gourcuff will return to Ligue 1 on loan with Bordeaux,” Galliani told Corriere Dello Sport.

Bordeaux president, Jean Luis Triaud, also confirmed that the deal for Gourcuff is at an advanced stage but not yet concrete.

“The loan deal with an option to buy is at an advanced stage but we have not yet been able to make it official,” said the Frenchman.

The 22-year-old will now be hoping he can put his dismal two years with Milan behind him as he looks to impress in France.

Bordeaux will be playing Champions League football next term and Gourcuff will have the chance to shine amongst Europe’s elite.

ZAMBROTTA IS MILAN'S!

2008-06-01T10:27:00.000-07:00

MILAN - Official! Gianluca Zambrotta is a new Milan player.

Born in Como on 19 February 1977, the new Milan full back started out playing in his home city. Initially employed as a winger, Zambrotta made his professional debut at age 17, with Calcio Como, where he played for three seasons, from 1994 to 1997, in Serie B and C1.

His Serie A debut came on 31 August 1997, after his passage to Bari, against Parma. His stay in Apulia lasted for two seasons, during which Zambrotta made 59 appearences and scored 6 goals.

Then, in '99, his passage to Juventus: there Juventus experimented playing him as a left back and it turned out to be a winning bet, as Zambrotta grew to become one of the best players in the world in that role. With the Bianconeri he played for seven seasons.
In the summer of 2006, after the chaos of 'Calciopoli', he leaves Italy and joins Frank Rijkaard's Barcelona. The Blaugrana's coach employed him mostly as a right back. With the Spaniards Zambrotta played a total of 58 games, scoring 3 goals.

A regular starter for the Azzurri, with Italy Zambrotta has made 71 appearences, scoring twice. The debut came on 10 February 1999 in Italy-Norway 0-0. Zambrotta participated to the World Cups of 2002 and 2006, and the Euros of 2000 and 2004.

In 2006 he was crowned world champion in Germany. With him, 5 Milanisti: Gattuso, Pirlo, Inzaghi, Nesta and Gilardino, plus Oddo who would become a Rossonero after a few months. His contribution to the World Cup was fundamental, and Fifa elected him as one of the best player in the tournament. He also scored a goal in the quarter final against Ukraine (3-0), and provided the assist for the third goal by Toni. Also memorable was his shot that hit the crossbar in the semifinal against Germany. Aside from the victory, he also received a special honor: the honorary presidency of Como Calcio.

In his personal trophy cabinet, he can boast: with Juve, the Scudettos of 2002 and 2003 (as well as those of 2005, revoked by the sports justice, and of 2006, later assigned to Inter), and two Italian Supercups (2002 and 2003): with the Bianconeri he also lost the Champions League in Manchester against Milan in 2003; with Barcelona he won one Spanish Supercup. And, obviously, the World Cup, with the national team.

At the moment, Gianluca Zambrotta is preparing to face the European adventure in Austria and Switzerland with the Azzurri shirt.

acmilan.com

Palermo chief Foschi admits interest for AC Milan's Abbiati

2008-05-28T09:39:00.000-07:00

Palermo sports chief Rino Foschi admits they're chasing AC Milan goalkeeper Christian Abbiati.

Foschi said: "Abbiati? We've talked about him, as we have Marco Amelia (Livorno) and other goalkeepers."

Gilardino joins Fiorentina (GOODBYE GILA!!)

2008-05-28T09:36:00.000-07:00

Fiorentina have completed the capture of striker Alberto Gilardino from Milan.

Gilardino, who signed at the San Siro from Parma in 2005, has penned a five-year contract with the Viola.

The 25-year-old is expected to be officially unveiled as a Fiorentina player on Thursday in a deal in the region of €13million (£10.4million).

Gilardino, who failed to secure a place in the Italy squad for Euro 2008, will rejoin former Parma team-mate Adrian Mutu and manager Cesare Prandelli at Stadio Artemio Franchi.

Flamini speaks of dream AC Milan move

2008-05-21T08:33:00.001-07:00

AC Milan's latest signing Mathieu Flamini has spoken about his decision to leave Arsenal, saying that only a dream move to the Italian giants could have tempted him away from London.

The 24-year-old Frenchman on Monday signed a four-year deal on a free transfer to the Milan club, after successfully completing a medical.

"I always thought Milan would be my first choice if I had to leave Arsenal," he told La Gazzetta dello Sport on Wednesday.

"I didn't do it for money. I don't want to brag, but I had lots of offers. If I chose Milan it was because it is every player's dream."

The Frenchman - who signed for the Gunners in 2004 - had turned down a new deal offered by manager Arsene Wenger prior to his contract running out at the end of the season.

"It was not easy to make the decision to leave London, but I knew what I wanted," he added.

AC Milan in Sampdoria talks for Sammarco and Christian Maggio

2008-05-21T08:33:00.000-07:00

AC Milan are eyeing Sampdoria midfielder Christian Maggio.Corriere dello Sport says Milan will ask Samp to name their price for Maggio during negotiations over the co-ownership of defender Paolo Sammarco, who is likely to return to the San Siro for next season.

MILAN-UDINESE 4-1

2008-05-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

MILAN - At San Siro Milan-Udinese finished 4-1.

After the first half goal by Mesto (32'), the Rossoneri found the victory thanks to goals by Pato (48'), Inzaghi (59'), Cafu (80') and Seedorf (88').

LETTER FROM CAFU

2008-05-18T08:46:00.000-07:00

Dear rossoneri fans,

Sunday's game will be the last one for me in a Milan shirt. Five years have passed since I became part of the great rossoneri family and eleven since I came to Italy.

They were unforgettable years, full of undescribable emotions for me and my family and great professional satisfactions which, as it happens in sports and life, sometimes alternate with less happy moments. I could make a list of a long series of moments which will always stay in my memory: from the first victories with San Paolo and Palmeiras, to the extraordinary Scudetto victory with Roma, to the moment when, as Captain of the Selecao, I lifted the World Cup in Japan in 2002, until the Scudetto victory in 2004 with Milan, and the Champions League last season.

I cannot however forget less fortunate experiences to which I am still connected like the inexplicable night in Istanbul. These are all targets you achieve by fighting until the end, with a smile on your face and a good dose of humility, hard work, and sacrifice. These are the characteristics which represent not only me, but the whole group I was privileged to work with these last five years. A team composed of great champions on and off the pitch, with whom I immediately established a wonderful understanding, so much so that I share wonderful memories with some of them.

On behalf of myself and my family, I wish to thank the President, the Coach, and my team mates, the managers and the entire club, to whom I wish all the best, all the friends I had the pleasure to meet during my 'Italian' years and especially the numerous Milan and Roma fans who always supported and encouraged me.

Marcos Cafu

ETO'O TRANSFERS ISSUE

2008-05-17T21:28:00.000-07:00

AC Milan are making a £15 million bid for Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o.Gazzetta dello Sport says Milan will have to compete with Inter and Chelsea for the Cameroonian, who has been put up for sale by Barca for £25 million.
However, it's understood Milan won't go higher than £18 million for Eto'o

Galliani talks about market

2008-05-17T21:21:00.000-07:00

After reiterating he would talk about the transfer season only after the game against Udinese, Galliani still answered some questions about this subject, starting from the coach:

'Voices about Donadoni? There's no doubt, whether he go in the Champions League or in the Uefa Cup, the coach will still be Ancelotti.'

Asked if there would be any talks with Maldini, who may still continue for another season, and Gattuso, he said:

'We will talk with Maldini, whose contract is running out, for the rest there's no need to hold any talks unless they express a desire to leave the club.'

On new players:

'I don't think Barcelona will lower their offer to 25 million euros, in any case that is not Milan's offer. We are interested in big name players like Amauri, but we've never started any negotiations with Palermo. We are not thinking about other strikers until we resolve the co-ownership with Borriello: if he comes back he will be an alternative for Amauri, otherwise we will get someone else: if Amauri's still available we will get Amauri, if not we'll get someone else. There are a lot of players you wouldn't think about who want to join Milan even if we have to play the Uefa Cup."

MILAN-UDINESE: CALLED UP ROSSONERI

2008-05-17T21:17:00.000-07:00

Here are the 18 called up players for the match against Udinese: Dida, Kalac, Bonera, Cafu, Digao, Favalli, Kaladze, Oddo, Serginho, Simic, Ambrosini, Brocchi, Kakà, Pirlo, Seedorf, Gilardino, Inzaghi, Pato.

Unavailable players: Jankulovski, Maldini, Emerson, Gourcuff, Ronaldo.

Suspended players: Gattuso, Nesta.

BORUC COMES TO MILAN?

2008-05-17T21:10:00.000-07:00

AC Milan could make a summer swoop for Celtic goalkeeper Artur Boruc - even if the Bhoys demand £10million for the Pole.
Boruc is under contract at Parkhead until 2011 but has been heavily linked with a move, with the likes of Milan, Bayern Munich and Spurs reportedly interested.
And with Milan No 1 Dida set to leave the San Siro in the summer - and understudy Zeljko Kalac also a possible departure - general manager Ariedo Braida admits a move for Boruc could be on the cards.
Quoted in the Daily Record, he said: "Boruc is an excellent goalkeeper. He has been outstanding for the past few years for Celtic in the Champions League.
"We are going to lose Dida and maybe our No 2 'keeper Kalac too so we need someone new.
"Boruc's valuation is high - £10million is a lot to pay - but I cannot exclude anything and it might still be possible to sign him.
"Soon the transfer window will be open and then we will see how the market is."

CAFU AND SERGINHO SET TO LEAVE MILAN

2008-05-17T20:29:00.000-07:00

Marcos Cafu:
"Five years ago I chose to come to Milan because I knew that it was a serious and important club, where here I could have proven everything I had previously learnt in my football past. I lived five marvellous years in which I managed to win everything. It will remain to me an unforgettable memory. When I arrived in the summer of 2003, Milan had just won the Champions League in the Manchester final and today Milan is still for the next few days European Champion following the Athens final. With Milan we won many titles. In these five years we also became World Champions and Italian champions. I think that inside me this happiness,for all the titles I won here together with my team-mates, will remain. The moment to leave has arrived. It’s sad and tough, but I knew that sooner or later the time to return home would have arrived, to return to Brazil to my family. My children have been fine here in Italy, especially in Milan.
"When I arrived at Milan I found coach Carlo Ancelotti who also he knew the Roma environment. In the first game at Rome, there was the curiosity to see the reaction towards me of the Giallorossi fans. In Rome I spent six marvellous years, I won the league title and what I will hold both from the Roma and Rossoneri fans is surely a wonderful memory."
"I have arrived at the moment to say goodbye. I don’t know whether I will play when I go back to Brazil. Sunday will be my last game, I don't know if the coach will allow me to play, but I will be ready for this important game which will not be just my farewell game, but also an important game for Milan. Carlo Ancelotti can count on me on all fronts. It will not be easy saying goodbye to the fans who have welcomed me in a fantastic way, so I hope not to have disappointed anyone. I will still continue to sidefor Milan.
"In my career I won thirty-two titles. It's surely a nice satisfaction both from the personal as well as the professional point of view. This means that my career has been victorious. I won everything and I’m really happy."

Serginho:
"After my back problem which I sustained two years ago I wasn't able to get back to my old level, so I think it's time to say goodbye. I arrived at Milan in the summer of 1999 along with Gattuso and Shevchenko, I was 27, nine splendid years have gone by and I have to thank the club, the fans for the great environment which has welcomed me here. In Milan I have also been part of a Brazilian colony, which was wonderful.In these two years I have suffered because my back prevented me from expressing myself at my level, I tried in every way, but I didn't find a solution. Now that I'm 36, I have decided to accept this problem and quit, because before I never had any serious injuries.
I thank Milan for what they have done in these nine years, I always gave my all and dedicated myself to this shirt. Also Silvio Berlusconi showed me his esteem and that gives me great pleasure because it's not easy to satisfy such a demanding person.
I came to Milan with the aim of completing a mission, I feel today it has been carried out and I calmly accept that my career is over. Sunday will be a difficult moment for me because San Siro has become a home for me and all the fans have always shown their closeness to the team. Saying goodbye is always hard, but personally I am calm and satisfied with what I've done for this team. I leave with the knowledge that I have given 100% of myself, and since today I am unable to give that 100% anymore, I think the most intelligent decision is to leave."

Berlusconi quits role as AC Milan president

2008-05-11T10:25:00.001-07:00

AC Milan president Silvio Berlusconi has resigned from his position in charge of the Serie A giants with immediate effect, the club announced today.

According to Italian law, the 71-year-old has to leave to avoid a conflict of interests when he begins his third stint as Italian prime minister.

It is expected that Berlusconi will hand over the reins to current vice-president Adriano Galliani.

EURO 2008: SEEDORF'S THERE

2008-05-06T22:04:00.000-07:00

Dutch national coach Marco Van Basten has made up a list of 30 players who are eligible for Euro 2008. The list will have to be reduced to 23 players before 28 May. Clarence Seedorf is one of the ten midfielders on this list. Holland has been drawn in a group alongside Italy, France, and Romania.

A.C. MILAN: OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT

2008-05-05T23:07:00.000-07:00

A.C. Milan announces to have agreed a contract between the French player Mathieu Flamini and the Rossoneri from July 1st 2008 until June 30th 2012. He will be earning €5.6 million per season over a four year period.
“I am really happy, thanks to everyone,” he told the reporters after emerging from the San Siro side's Milanello headquarters, where he completed the last remaining details of his free transfer.

Full name            : Mathieu Flamini
Date of birth       :  7 March 1984 (age 24)
Place of birth       : Marseille, France
Height                : 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
Playing position   : Defensive Midfielder

2008-05-04T11:27:00.000-07:00

2008-05-04T11:25:00.000-07:00

2008-05-04T11:21:00.000-07:00

Serie A: AC Milan 2-1 Inter (inter.it version) :lol:

2008-05-04T11:02:00.000-07:00

AC Milan beat Inter 2-1 to avoid a fourth consecutive derby defeat - a result that sees the Nerazzurri's Serie A lead cut to three points as Roma won 3-0 against Sampdoria.

Filippo Inzaghi and Kaka scored within six second-half minutes to stun Mancini's men, but Julio Cruz reduced the arrears to set up a dramatic finale.

Milan's best chances of a tactical first half fell to Inzaghi, who headed wide crosses from Bonera and Kaka.

It was third time lucky for the experienced Italian, who stole in to nod Kaka's cross past Julio Cesar for Milan's opener on 51 minutes.

Kaka turned from provider to scorer in the 56th, sliding home from a tight angle to double the Rossoneri's lead after a defensive mistake by Vieira.

The Brazilian's goal prompted a vehement reaction from the Nerazzurri, Maniche and Crespo having shots blocked by Kalac before Cruz cut Milan's lead in the 76th minute with a curling free kick that sailed round the wall and into the far corner.

Inter launched a late onslaught on goal but Milan held firm for a victory that boots their prospects of Champions League football next season.

ok enough!! we beat u this time... we beat u inter 2 - 1

TAKEOVER!

2008-05-04T10:50:00.000-07:00

Win to become Italian champions. Roberto Mancini decided to add some experience to his team by inserting former Milan player Hernan Crespo, who beat the competition of Balotelli. Dejan Stankovic was not a part of this game, and was substituted by Portuguese player Maniche.

In a very heated climate Milan and Inter started the game carefully, studying each other's moves. Maniche man-marked Pirlo, while Seedorf remained very wide on the left wing with an eye for Maicon.

The first real chance of the game came in the 20th minute, when Kaká passed the ball to Inzaghi, who found himself alone in front of Julio Cesar, but the Brazilian managed to stop the striker's shot. After missing such a big chance Milan started playing faster and Inter started to suffer the Rossoneri's initiative, with Crespo often needing to help out the midfield. In the 35th minute Inzaghi again sent shivers down the visitors' spine, but after making a turn his shot finished wide of the goal. In the 40th minute Favalli was forced to leave the pitch due to a physical problem and he was replaced by Jankulovski.

The last chance of the half came just before the break, and once again it were the Rossoneri who came close. Kaká sent in a perfect pass for Inzaghi who headed the ball down; Julio Cesar stood still but the ball went just wide.

The second half followed the same pattern as the first, with Inter waiting and Milan playing. Carlo Ancelotti's side looked more sharp and after many attempts they finally unblocked the match. Kaká sent the ball in from the right and SuperPippo beat Julio Cesar with a header. For the champion with the number 9 shirt scored his 99th goal with Milan.

Milan's opening goal was a real blow to Inter, who struggled to get back into the game. On the other side Milan were merciless and cynical as never before. On the second occasion near Julio Cesar, Kaká did not miss, and on a pass by Ambrosini he beat his countryman with a precise shot to make it 2-0.

After going two goals down, Inter started to react. The nerazzurri looked angry and put pressure on Ancelotti's team, and Crespo had a shot in the 17th minute which was well saved by Kalac.

Mancini's team continued to take the initiative, but Milan looked like they had the game under control. In the 30th minute, however, Inter reduced the deficit. On a free kick Julio Cruz beat Kalac, who remained nailed to the ground on the Argentinean's shot.

The last few minutes of the match were very heated, as Inter tried to take advantage of aerial play while Milan tried to play on the counterattack. In the 40th minute Inter again came close with a free kick, but this time Kalac punched away Chivu's effort. Near the end there was no lack of hard play by the two nervous teams, but Milan were the team who celebrated. Fiorentina lost at Cagliari and Milan are now two steps away from the Champions League!

acmilan.com

DERBY DELLA MADONNINA !!!!!

2008-05-03T06:46:00.000-07:00

San Siro zero hour for Inter and Milan

2008-05-03T06:42:00.000-07:00

Sunday 4 May 2008 could end up being an unforgettable day for FC Internazionale Milano. Beating city rivals AC Milan in the Derby della Madonnina would mean a third Serie A title in as many seasons for the Nerazzurri, but Milan will be determined to prevent that from happening as the 2006/07 UEFA Champions League winners - fifth in Serie A - look to book a place in next season's European club showcase.

Superior record

Taking the Scudetto with a win against Milan is the stuff of fantasy for many Inter fans, but it could be a reality by Saturday. Victory would ensure they maintain their six-point advantage over second-place AS Roma, who visit UC Sampdoria on Sunday, and since they have a superior head-to-head record in their games against Luciano Spalletti's side, the title would be theirs.

Cautious words

Roberto Mancini, however, is hoping that the derby dream will not overshadow the serious task at hand. "Our target is to win the title, no matter when," said the coach, whose side visit S.S. Lazio in the Coppa Italia final second leg on 7 May, after drawing 0-0 in the home fixture. "I hope we get the result we need against Milan but if we don't we'll try to hit the target in the last two matches."

Nine goals

Mancini will be well aware of how important the derby is for Milan, who are still two points adrift of ACF Fiorentina in the race for the fourth and final UEFA Champions League berth. Nine goals in back-to-back wins against Reggina Calcio and AS Livorno Calcio are a measure of the sharp upturn in Rossoneri performances in recent weeks, and Carlo Ancelotti is feeling buoyant.

Final atmosphere

"We love these kinds of games and we are used to playing them," said the Milan coach as he focused on the San Siro clash. "I think Inter want to win the title as soon as possible as surprises are always around the corner in football. However, only a win will suffice for us. This is not a [UEFA] Champions League final, but the atmosphere and pressure will be the same and we are prepared for it.

European dimension

"The future is in our hands," he added. "For many of the Milan players, there is a huge difference between [UEFA] Champions League and UEFA Cup football and we want to play in the former competition next season." Victory against Inter would not redeem a difficult season for Milan or put Inter's title in huge peril, but making life difficult for the Nerazzurri could yet have important side-effects. (uefa.com)

Milan derby may be decisive - AC Milan hopes to spoil Inter's title party

2008-05-03T06:36:00.000-07:00

AC Milan will do all it can to spoil cross-town rival Inter's party and keep it from celebrating its division title with two matches left in the season.

Milan has more at stake than Inter, which enjoys a 6-point lead over second-placed AS Roma, because it currently sits behind Fiorentina for the last berth open to enter the Champions League preliminary round.

''They (Inter) have the title practically in their pocket, let's say 80%. But for Milan it's different because we're playing for next season, to take part in the Champions League,'' observed Georgian defender Kakhaber Kaladze, who scored the only goal in Milan's last derby win in April 2006.

Sunday's match will be a toss up, Kaladze, explained, ''because there is never a favorite in a derby. We're in good form and so are they''. ''The group is going to make the difference more than strategy and this is one of Milan's strong points,'' he added.

Roma is still in the running for the division title and should Inter lose the derby and the capital's side defeat Sampdoria there would only be a gap of three points with two matches left.

However, should Roma draw and Inter win, then the Milan side will its third title in a row on Sunday.

Inter will also take the title if it draws and Roma loses.

Sampdoria still has a mathematical chance of reaching the Champions League preliminary round, especially if it beats Roma and Inter wins the derby, which would place the Genoa side one point ahead of Milan and on the heels of Fiorentina.

Fiorentina travels to Cagliari on Sunday licking the wounds of its elimination from the UEFA cup this weak after a penalty shoot-out at home against Glasgow Rangers.

Cagliari currently sits above the relegation zone and may play for a draw, hoping that Fiorentina will be demotivated by its UEFA defeat and losing striker Christian Vieri, who tore a tendon during Thursday night's shoot-out.

Other matches on Sunday include third-placed Juventus away at Siena, Torino hosting Napoli and Lazio receiving Palermo in Rome. (ANSA.it)

THE DECLARATIONS OF CLARENCE SEEDORF

2008-05-03T06:34:00.001-07:00

Clarence, we are in the week that leads to the match on Sunday against Inter...

"At the moment I see a very strong Inter. They have to control their games and they don't need to take any big risks. This must be an important signal to us because we know we will find a team who know exactly what they want. In any case we are doing well right now, we have three games left in which we have to get three points and then see what Fiorentina do.

I think it's right to celebrate every single victory, each game in this period is important, also the one on Sunday against Livorno. There's still a lot of time to get ready and we don't need the whole week to do it ahead of the derby, we will be ready at the right moment. The important thing is to have the tranquility and serenity in our work, without thinking about the game all the time. We have to stay calm, and prepare the game against Inter the same way we have done with the other games these last weeks."

What is the best memory you have of a derby?

"Certainly the goal I scored to make it 3-2 when we came back from 2-0 down. It was very significant because it helped us to win the Scudetto."

Ibrahimovic's absence?

"Inter continued to win despite his absence because they are still a strong team, with five very good strikers who can make the difference." (acmilan.com)

AMBROSINI: 'A special derby'

2008-05-03T06:33:00.001-07:00

Massimo Ambrosini talked about the match against Inter on Sunday: 'It's a special derby - the midfielder explained to Studio Sport - 'a game which comes at a very delicate time. We know perfectly it will be one of our last chances to catch the train of Champions League qualification and we know we have to win at all costs.'

JULIO CESAR: 'Kaká the most dangerous one'

2008-05-03T06:31:00.000-07:00

In an interview given to Studio Sport, Julio Cesar talks about the derby: 'Kaká is the most dangerous, he can decide a game on his own and already did that last year in the Champions League.' The Inter goalkeeper also talked about Dida: 'Nelson remains an example. I've already learned a lot from him in the national team.' And then there's Pato: 'Everyone is waiting to make the comparison between him and Balotelli.'

MILAN - INTER THE DISCIPLINARY SITUATION

2008-05-03T06:15:00.000-07:00

Milan will be without any suspended players for Sunday's game against Inter at 3pm at San Siro, but will have the following six players cautioned: Marcos Cafu, Giuseppe Favalli, Rino Gattuso, Alessandro Nesta, Massimo Oddo, Andrea Pirlo. Even Inter will not have any suspended players, but will have nine players cautioned: Balotelli, Burdisso, Cambiasso, Cordoba, Figo, Jimenez, Julio Cesar, Maicon and Stankovic.

Real Madrid tell AC Milan: £100M for Van Nistelrooy

2008-04-19T04:56:00.000-07:00

Real Madrid have warned AC Milan off star striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.

Reacting to reports that Milan had offered £4 million for the Dutchman, a senior Real director told Marca: "Van Nistelrooy is not for sale and whoever wants sign him will have to pay his buyout clause (£100 million).

"Why are we going to release him if we've just renewed his contract? I'm sure that next season he will again be one of the best goleadores. We rely on him and he is very important for us."

AC Milan ace Kaka pleads with Gattuso to stay

2008-04-19T04:43:00.000-07:00

Kaka has pleaded with Rino Gattuso to stay with AC Milan.

"I really cannot imagine Milan without Rino," said the Brazilian.

Asked about the arrival of Ronaldinho from Barcelona, Kaka said: "I think he could do very well here. We can play together and already have done for the Selecao. This is a team that can take many great champions in its line-up, so if more were to arrive that would be even better."

Of Chelsea striker Andriy Shevchenko, he added: "If Sheva returned then I would be very happy, because he is my friend. For various reasons he has not played consistently for the past two years, but I know he could make his contribution to Milan."

MILAN, 18 YEARS IN THE LEAD

2008-04-02T00:14:00.000-07:00

Eighteen years photographed with the magnifying glass of statistics. The Iffhs of Wiesbaden (Germany), recognised by Fifa, make up every month the ranking, with a coefficient comprised of performances, results, and victories, of the top 25s of the whole world. From 1991 to 2007 Milan were on top of the ranking 37 times, in different periods. No team in the world has been judged to be at the top of this sport like Milan in the last 18 years.

The Rossoneri were ranked first by Iffhs Club World Ranking in the following months:

- January 1991
- February 1991
- January 1993
- February 1993
- March 1993
- April 1993
- May 1993
- June 1993
- July 1993
- August 1993
- September 1993
- October 1993
- January 1994
- February 1994
- March 1994
- April 1994
- May 1994
- June 1994
- July 1994
- August 1994
- September 1994
- October 1994
- Entire year 1995
- January 1996
- February 1996
- March 1996
- May 2003
- June 2003
- July 2003
- August 2003
- September 2003
- October 2003
- December 2003
- Entire year 2003
- January 2004
- February 2004
- April 2004

from IFFHS

WE WILL IMPROVE AND WE WILL FIGHT

2008-03-10T04:14:00.000-07:00

ADRIANO GALLIANI

'I'm happy about the three points, this was one of our 12 finals, the first of our 12 finals, we won it, while Fiorentina lost. We are now one point away from the Viola, as we were a week before the results all changed. The battle will be until the end.'

'I was a bit tense because Milan were not playing well, our goal came in a moment when we were struggling, like it happened on Tuesday when Arsenal scored in their worst moment. I think the game changed when we scored the second goal. It reminds me of what happened at San Siro against the English. Football is like that, it should be accepted in good luck and bad luck. Today we had that bit of luck we didn't have on Tuesday.'

'Now we'll see what Juventus do tonight against Genoa, we'll see if there will be two places for three teams or one for two.'

CARLO ANCELOTTI

'This is a good result, it's certainly a positive victory, we needed it and it's good for the environment. Also, Fiorentina have lost and so now we are closer to the fourth place. A new period starts for us now which will allow us to work and to present the team at its best. Today it wasn't easy, after the great disappointment of Tuesday. This was the last game of a cycle which has seen us play non stop from 13 January until today. Now we'll have the chance to train the whole week and prepare well.'

'I didn't like Milan today. We are in a period of convalescence. Today we needed the result and it's very important that it came, even if we struggled. For the rest we will wait. With calmness we will find our best football again. The reaction was there, I think things will improve. We have to look forward and think about the next Champions League.'

'Paloschi's entrance? He's young and good, we can use him when perhaps the others are a bit tired, his freshness and his enthusiasm can help us.'

from acmilan.com

KALAC : Thank You Fans!!

2008-03-06T09:25:00.000-08:00

"After the match against Arsenal on tuesday night the fans were great, they applauded because they understood that unfortunately you can't always win and we appreciate their understanding. Now we must focus on the league to go forward and win the fourth place. We are all very disappointed to have exited such a prestigious competition, but now Milan have to find the energy necessary to continue. In these past few months we have suffered the fact that we've had so many matches close together, but now we have the chance to prepare every match carefully and earn many important points.
Perhaps if on tuesday we had scored in the first twenty minutes everything would have turned out different, unfortunately we didn't manage it and at the end Arsenal surprised us when it was already too late.
On Sunday we have the match away to Empoli, it will certainly not be easy because we are coming off a match where we had 80.000 fans supporting us at San Siro, but we have the duty to prepare it well, especially mentally."

MILAN-ARSENAL: CALLED UP ROSSONERI

2008-03-03T19:27:00.000-08:00

Here are the 21 players called up by Carlo Ancelotti for tomorrow's match against Arsenal:
GOALKEEPERS: Kalac, Fiori, Offredi
DEFENDERS: Bonera, Favalli, Kaladze, Maldini, Nesta, Oddo, Simic
MIDFIELDERS: Ambrosini, Gattuso, Emerson, Gourcuff, Pirlo, Seedorf
STRIKERS: Gilardino, Inzaghi, Paloschi, Pato, Kakà.

Milan's Seedorf doubtful for Arsenal clash

2008-03-02T09:04:00.000-08:00

AC Milan's Dutch midfielder Clarence Seedorf is a doubt for Tuesday's Champions League clash at home to Arsenal after suffering a leg muscle strain in the 1-1 draw with Lazio in Serie A on Saturday.
"We'll see over the next few days, but I think it will be difficult to have him back for Tuesday," Milan coach Carlo Ancelotti told Sky television.
Seedorf pulled up after 34 minutes at the San Siro.
Ancelotti said the European champions were suffering fatigue after their fourth league draw in five games.
"We're tired but so are all the other teams, even in Europe," he said. "I don't see teams producing spectacular soccer".
Milan host Arsenal after the first leg of the last 16 tie ended goalless at The Emirates stadium.

MILAN - LAZIO photos

2008-03-02T08:46:00.000-08:00

KAKA in MILAN For the rest of his carier

2008-02-29T10:29:00.000-08:00

His was a life choice. An important signature which represents the will of the man and the champion Kaká to remain a rossonero, to become with every day more and more a symbol and flag of this club. The Brazilian revealed his emotions in a long interview to Milan Channel.

'I remember that a year ago Milan Channel also asked me if I wanted to stay at Milan for life. In that circumstance I did not yet have the right confidence but today I do. Now I can say it and I want to. I want to stay a Rossonero for the rest of my career, I want to stay here for life. I remember the last two summers well, full of pressures, 'Ricky goes, Ricky stays'. My renewals have always come at difficult times, like it happened in the summer of 2006 during 'calciopoli'. That's why I did not give the answer I am able to give now before. I apologize for that, but I simply did not feel like I was ready to make such a commitment. But everything is different now, and I can say it without dboubt and a lot of joy.'

'This renewal charges me up, I think about the future and I know I will stay here, forever in this winning team which always starts with the aim to win. For a player that's a good feeling. I never take decisions alone, I talked with my family, my wife Caroline. She told me: 'Ricky, if I could I would sign too.' She's happy with this decision, to remain in Milan and in this club. Milan are always special in the way they treat us.'

'This is my fifth season at Milan, I want to become a symbol, a flag, and one day a captain of this club, with respect for the hierarchies. That day will come, substituting Paolo Maldini will be a great responsibility but before me there are other players and I respect that.

'In a few months I will become a father (Ricky revealed to a subscriber that he will have a son). Caroline and I are awaiting the moment, living everything with great emotion. Every day she feels something special, something new. I stay close to her, I accompany her to each exam, it's a good feeling to know that soon we will have our first son.'

'This fourth signature of mine is a life choice. Galliani knows it, I've told him yesterday as well. What I experienced here has always been intense. I've seen players leave, not just Sheva, who then always told me to evaluate my choices carefully because Milan are different, Milan live of feelings, affection, and this for me is a special value. I am happy to live my career here.'

'I think about when I will be 31 (in 2013), I imagine I will still be in good form. Besides, in this club I only have great examples in front of me which I will try to follow. The first great model of my life was Rogerio Ceni who spent his entire career at San Paolo. Here the example is Maldini. I want to be like them. Reaching Paolo won't be easy, but I will try to come as close as possible to the great targets and statistics which regard him. Scoring many goals, winning a lot. Those are my objectives. I want to enter the history books of this club.'

'If you ask me today who is the best Italian player, I say without a doubt Andrea Pirlo. For the way he behaves on the pitch, for how he plays, he is very important for us. I always feel the difference between when he's on the pitch and when he isn't. When we play I always ask the defenders to give the ball to him, every ball goes through him, he's intelligent, he's a player who's always there in important moments. He'll be there on Tuesday. It will be tough also for him, he's playing a lot and there is some tiredness but on Tuesday he will be ready and for us it will mean a lot.'

'I feel better, yesterday I tried to run and it went well. For tomorrow I am not available, but I'm very confident I will be there on Tuesday.
This hasn't been a good period for me, physically I haven't been doing too well over the last month. The knee, the knock the other day... Physically I'm not at my best. But this week I've had the chance to work a lot, also physically. That was useful for me. I work hard to get in good form on Tuesday and do everything that people expect from me. Against Arsenal it will be a special match, I imagine a sold out San Siro, I remember Milan-Celtic of last year. In the end that turned out to be an unforgettable match, let's hope it will be the same way on Tuesday.'

Draw 1-1 (Milan vs Catania)

2008-02-27T17:22:00.000-08:00

At the Stadio 'Massimino' of Catania, Catania-Milan finished 1-1. The Rossoneri went in front in the 55th minute through Pato. Spinesi equalised for the Sicilians in the 64th minute.

HUNTING DOWN KAKA

2008-02-26T11:33:00.000-08:00

The initial "score" of the last two league games on Ricardo Kaka? Here you go. Parma-Milan, first half: in the 7th minute a foul by Morrone from behind, in the 17th minute a foul by Dessena on the edge of the penalty area, in the 20th minute a foul by Morrone. These last in particular is the model of the Kaka-method. The “targeted” player did a bad slide tackle on the player’s foot, risking everything: leg, or ankle, it doesn’t matter, on him you have to risk.

It’s not over. Milan-Palermo, first half: after 1 minute and 43 seconds a bad foul by Guana, from behind, exactly on the knee which is hurting Kaka. In the 22nd minute a foul by Migliaccio in midfield, not even whistled by the referee. In the 29th minute a foul by Bresciano, from behind, on Kaka who was launched towards the penalty area, with Ricky, who full of knocks and pain, has a reaction towards the referee.

Amongst these two games, London, where the loyalty in the Champions League and the sports culture are higher. What really hits us in the Italian league, is not just the numerous number of fouls on Kaka, on which the referees of our league overlook, but the scientific factor. It’s never the same player to make these fouls. There is an alteration between one player and another. As if it was a strategy. Almost the sign of a preparation. And here evidently the referees have no fault at all.

The hammering which Kaka is suffering is the same which had mined the physique and resistance of Marco Van Basten. The Dutch star played his last game at the highest level at 28 years of age. It was November 1992 against Gothenborg at San Siro. Then here never came back. No! It must not happen for Kaka too. There is no post-Golden Ball crisis and there is no world class player playing badly. We are simply facing a player who is hunted, who has to stop for 15-20 days to manage his problems, then evidently does not return on the pitch at his best.

The reality is that whereas the Milan opponents take turns in fouling Kaka, and the first minutes foul does not receive any sanction, it is becoming a custom of most Italian teams towards Kaka. The Rossoneri’s team are therefore risking an important part of the season against Arsenal. In the Kaka will recover, he will prepare himself and he will do his best to be in front of 80,000 fans at San Siro. Until the next foul, or the ‘ordinary administration’ of the Italian referees. So in the end, until when?

from acmilan.com

ancelotti : WE NEED MORE QUALITY

2008-02-25T17:21:00.000-08:00

These are the first words of Carlo Ancelotti during the press conference on the eve of Milan-Palermo: “I think that only Nesta is unavailable, all the others are available. Pato is available, Dida I don’t think so. I don’t give indications on the formation. The last games? On Wednesday we have proven to have a great defensive solidity and a difficulty in proposing important attacking solutions. Our period is tied to a great solidity in defence, whereas we must improve, starting from tomorrow's game. Tomorrow it will be a game with the same features of the previous games. Palermo has a squad of better quality in the construction of the game, we must have more efficiency upfront and push more even with the full-backs. We need to send clean balls upfront and a lot will depend on the quality of the midfielders in the construction of the game. Titles on Lippi? They don’t weight, we're used to them. The difference between ten and eleven men? It’s the truth, Inter lost a player after half an hour. Inter played their game in ten, we played ours in eleven. It’s not a problem.”

The other topics the Rossoneri’s coach spoke about: “I did not speak to Ronaldo yesterday, I did so in the previous days. The idea that I came up with is that he has not yet taken the right road, he is still uncertain on his future, but he will take the right road. Now he must remain calm, he cannot do anything as he has the foot blocked for at least 30 days. We will see in future if he will put in the right will to recover. I say that he has a great opportunity, in the bad luck. He has always been considered a bit lazy, maybe this is the right time to deny everyone and everything, maybe even himself. The league and the Champions League for us are two difficult situations. We are halfway down the ford and to overtake it we will need to do something more in the quality of the game. In 15 days time the condition will be better, but the quality of the game must improve. Arsenal remains very strong and tough, we are fifty-fifty for the qualification. I expected Arsenal to be like this. For the moment it is going through, Milan did its best. Even though, on the aesthetic level, we could have done more. At times we try to search too much for the through ball, rather than the shot on goal. We have good shooters and we must take advantage of these solutions."

Carlo Ancelotti again: “Amauri is a player who has important characteristics; he could be amongst the players indicated for the Milan future even though I have no preference. The four players in attack? Who knows, maybe there could be a surprise…We need to have four attackers of high level, considering that Ronaldo will return in 2009. I put my hand in the fire that Gilardino will remain with us next year. Palermo has changed a lot in these years. In the first round we played the best game of the season and we came out defeated. Now there’s Guidolin who change the team’s tactics, if we did not win it was a coincidence. Kaka? Last year he was the top scorer of the Champions League, but his role is not that of a scorer. I think he will score more goals. Kalac? He’s improving, if he played on Wednesday he can play also tomorrow.”

from acmilan.com

KAKÁ: STRONG CONTUSION

2008-02-25T17:18:00.000-08:00

Ricky Kaká was subjected to an x-ray test today. The exam gave a negative result. Kaká only suffered a strong contusion following Milan-Palermo.

Milan vs Palermo's photos

2008-02-25T16:54:00.000-08:00

Words from players (Milan - Palermo = 2 - 1)

2008-02-25T05:37:00.000-08:00

YOANN GOURCUFF (Nice pass for Inzaghi)

"It's never easy for Milan when we concede a goal at home, but fortunately tonight we won and we also managed to reach fourth place. The second half was more difficult because we were all attacking while Palermo often went on the counterattack and made themselves dangerous. I knew I was coming on the pitch at the start of the second half, when the medical staff decided that Kaká should come off. I was happy, I came in, I changed my position and I managed to give an important assist for Pippo's goal. I hope that from now on I will play more because there are more matches ahead, and gain more confidence in the way I play so I can try more shots from distance or give important assists. It's always nice to play."

FILIPPO INZAGHI (Inzaghi set a new record for MILAN)

"It was a difficult match and we knew it, fortunately Yoann did well to give the assist and then it went well. At Yokohama I had reached 89 goals with the Milan shirt, I needed just one to reach the 90th goal and make Milan the team I have scored the most goals with in my career. For the first time today we have reached the fourth place and we did it just at the end when everything seemed over, I'm very happy. Last year I scored most of my goals in Europe and I missed scoring in the league, I was stuck at 127 goals for a long while. This goal makes me very happy because when I had found my condition I had an injury to my finger which kept me out for 60 days. I am serene because I am running like I used to do, but my condition can still improve. I've played two matches for 90 minutes and tonight I'm happy to have come in and given my contribution to the team."

MASSIMO AMBROSINI (Another milan's hardworker player)

"This victory has to be a starting point because the road is long and there are important opponents. It was important to reach the fourth place, but it's just as important to keep this position. Today's football is very much decided by episodes, and it's too bad that not always the referee's assistants help him properly. When there is a lot of confusion in the area it's not easy for a referee to decide exactly what's going on and that's why I think he should be helped more.
Tonight I also managed to score, I have fun going forward and sometimes I also manage to get a goal. In this period we have a lot of matches close together and in the long run the tiredness will make itself felt, the coach is using a lot of different midfielders and we all try to be ready.
Now we have two more matches in the league which are not to be underestimated and then the match against Arsenal. I think it will be a nice game, with the crowd on our side, I think it will be one of those nights that Milan are used to."

ZELJKO KALAC (a consistent goalkeeping)

"The match went very well, we should have closed it earlier, but the victory is deserved and the three points we won are really important."

Words from ancelotti (Milan - Palermo = 2-1)

2008-02-25T05:34:00.000-08:00

"It was the most difficult second half of the season so far, we are a bit tired, we have to admit it and we also have a number of injuries. Kaká got a knock to where he was already hurting, but I don't think it's anything serious. Palermo are a difficult team to face, we started poorly in the first half but then the team played well. In the second half we were unable to repeat ourselves because lately we are struggling. The referees? I think we should continue believing them, but certain penalty kicks have to be given."

"In Europe referees are a lot more confident in situations like fouls from behind, our players have to be protected like that as well. But for now let's think about the table, it will be a very tough period because the team is not in great form right now and there is a second leg eighth final against Arsenal to play, we cannot give up."

"At Catania we will certainly rotate some players, I think Kaká won't be available and we will have to evaluate Seedorf's condition."

from acmilan.com

Milan - Palermo Called up Players

2008-02-23T18:31:00.000-08:00

Here are the 18 called up Milan players for tomorrow:

GOALKEEPERS: Fiori, Kalac;
DEFENDERS: Bonera, Favalli, Jankulovski, Kaladze, Oddo, Simic;
MIDFIELDERS: Ambrosini, Brocchi, Emerson, Gattuso, Gourcuff, Pirlo;
STRIKERS: Gilardino, Inzaghi, Kakà, Pato.

from official site of AC MILAN

photos of Palermo vs Milan 1st round

Arsenal vs AC Milan images

2008-02-23T04:30:00.000-08:00

Milan buy Michelangelo Albertazzi for full ownership

2008-02-23T04:20:00.000-08:00

Michelangelo Albertazzi are bought by AC Milan from Bologna for Full Ownership, here it's the player data :

Name : Michelangelo Albertazzi
Date of Birth: 07/01/1991
Place of Birth: Bologna
Nationality: Italy
Height: 185 cm.
Weight: 73 Kg.
Role: Defender

Milan need striker following ronaldo's injury

2008-02-23T04:16:00.000-08:00

AC Milan vice-president Adriano Galliani admits they need to sign a new striker following Ronaldo's injury.

"I will not talk about our transfer policy until May or June, but with Ronaldo out of action we do need a fourth striker to join Alberto Gilardino, Alexandre Pato and Pippo Inzaghi," said Galliani.

"All the big clubs need four strikers and it is better to have an abundance of options than too few. Inter have a similar problem with Hernan Crespo not getting much space, but there is no alternative at this level."

Chelsea striker Didier Drogba, Arsenal's Emmanuel Adebayor, former AC Milan star Andriy Shevchenko and Lyon starlet Karim Benzema were all put to Galliani - and he didn't shoot them down.

"All four of them would fit the bill," replied Galliani.

Shevchenko comment regarding ronaldo's injury

2008-02-23T04:14:00.000-08:00

"He's a player who has given so much to football. I regret that in his career he's had many injuries. But he is a player who has still shone and won many things," said the former Milan favourite.

"For me, he was the best attacker. When he was good, there was no one better than him."

RONALDO : THE HEART SAYS TO PLAY

2008-02-23T04:12:00.000-08:00

The press conference organized to hear Ronaldo, before he left the Pitie-Salpetrieren clinic of Paris, was full of topics, but at the same time we understood how the ‘Fenomeno’ is feeling. Ronie is still hope to return to play, but before everything else he must only and exclusively think about the rehabilitation. It will not be easy, but probably shorter than the first serious injury, that of eight years ago.

Ronaldo, even though he lives through this terrible moment, he still seems incredulous:
“Everything is still very recent, it just happened and no one expected this incident. It was a very tough blow, very tough mentally. I cannot still believe that it really happened.” One of the first questions was directed towards his future and his return to the football world. “For the return I must still think. I still don’t know if I will continue to play. Now I only think about recovering in the best possible way. I know that it will be very tough again, but I hope to succeed.”

The doubt whether Ronie still wants to return to play or no is soon revealed. Even here the reply is very clear: “I have a lot of desire to return to play. My heart says to continue playing, but I must see how my physique responds. Lately it is giving important signals: it is very tired and has suffered a lot. If at the end of the recovery path I will be very well, then I will be back on the pitch, otherwise I will take the very tough decision to quit."

On one thing the number 9 seems optimistic: “I don’t know exactly how long this rehabilitation period will last, but surely it will be take less time than the previous one, that of eight years ago. I will do my best to win this battle against my physique.” Ronaldo does not have a high morale, but despite this he has not lost the lucidity not even when some questions were more dangerous than others, like when they asked him if he thinks that if something specific has caused the injury: "I don't think about the causes. It happened and that's it. I have many other things to think about now. I don’t know what to say about Milan, my contract expires in June. Milan is a home for me, I have a family there that waits for me. What annoys me is how it went…Right now it’s difficult to talk about a contract.”

Before ending the touching press conference, Ronaldo wanted to thank those who gave him a lot of affection in these last days: "I thank all of my team-mates who were close to me, who have suffered with me, who sent me many messages. I also thank the President and the entire club. The people who, even though I don’t know them, made me understand that around me there is a lot of affection. I also thank my family. In these moments I can only say thanks, because without this type of support I don’t know if I would have managed.”

from ac milan.com

Gilardino quotes prior to milan vs arsenal

2008-02-18T02:56:00.000-08:00

These are the declarations of Alberto Gilardino to 'Milan Channel' at the end of today's training session:

"Pity about the result, because last night we could have taken home the three points, especially for the performance Milan had in the second half with some chances we managed to create. Bucci was very good to stop us. Now we take this point and we prepare well the game against Arsenal.

Personally I feel fine, I'm in form and I have a lot of desire to play and to give my contribution to the squad. Yesterday I had a couple of chances to score, in particular a ball was stopped by Castellini with his heel.

Returning to the Tardini was a particular sensation, both for the affection that I feel for this city, where I spent three years of my life, and for the people who are always warm. As a stadium it resembles a lot the English model, with the public very close to the pitch.

On Wednesday we shall face Arsenal. We have few days, but we shall use these hours to prepare this important game well. We are training well to arrive prepared both in the mental and physical level so as to play a tactically perfect game. We must play a good game."

ARSENAL: WENGER'S DECLARATIONS

2008-02-18T02:51:00.000-08:00

These are the declarations of the Arsenal coach, Arsene Wenger, at the end of the fifth round of the FA Cup which the Gunners played yesterday against Manchester United, ahead of Wednesday evening's game against Milan, valid for the first leg of the Champions League last 16: "We need to recover the energies as quickly as possible because to beat Milan we shall have to do our best."

AC MILAN Official Announcement (Kalac injured)

2008-02-17T07:47:00.000-08:00

A.C. Milan announces that during the training session of today, goalkeeper Zeljko Kalac suffered a dislocation to the phalanx of the index finger in his right hand. His conditions will be evaluated tomorrow to understand whether he will be available for London against Arsenal.

History Lesson for Milan (UCL's Comments)

2008-02-17T07:45:00.000-08:00

It's Groundhog Day in Milan. Last season, Roberto Mancini's Internazionale took an early grip on Serie A and never looked like relinquishing it, going on to win the Scudetto by a record 22-point margin over second-placed Roma. Across town, Carlo Ancelotti's Milan started poorly and were floundering in mid-table in the autumn, before staging a late charge to claim fourth place. This season, Inter took an early grip on Serie A and still have a handsome lead while Milan started awfully, dropping 24 out of a possible 48 points before Christmas, but are now lurking around fourth place.

Of the two, it will be Milan praying that the rest of the season pans out exactly the way it did last year. Inter, cantering to the title in a league weakened by penalties inflicted on rivals in the wake of the match-fixing scandal, won fewer plaudits than their dominance deserved. The true test of Mancini's team, it was widely agreed, would come in the Champions' League. Here, Inter were unable to impose themselves on a good, but not invincible, Valencia in the last 16 and went out in ignominy, amid one of the nastiest punch-ups that the competition has ever seen.

Milan, of course, went on to win the competition, knocking out Manchester United in the semi-final before beating Liverpool in the final. Everything clicked into place after Christmas, with the players hitting peak form and fitness when it mattered most. Ancelotti described the 3-0 second-leg victory over United at the San Siro as "a perfect performance".

All of which would seem to suggest that Liverpool, who face Inter at Anfield on Tuesday, should feel slightly more confident than Arsenal, who host Milan at the Emirates the following day. But there have been a couple of changes to the script which throw up the possibility of a different outcome. First, Inter are an even stronger outfit than they were last year and meet a Liverpool side experiencing an identity crisis on and off the pitch. Second, Milan are facing a wave of injuries which will test the resources of a limited squad.

The career-threatening knee injury sustained by Milan's Brazilian striker Ronaldo on Wednesday was the latest in a blighted season. Ten days earlier, the club's 18-year-old Brazilian prodigy, Alexandre Pato, came off the bench to settle a tight league game against Fiorentina with a cool finish, his fourth goal in six appearances. The backslapping on the Milan bench had hardly finished when the player sprained an ankle chasing down a loose ball. He is a doubt against Arsenal, at least for the first leg.

Milan are likely to start with Alberto Gilardino as a lone striker in a 4-3-2-1 formation, with the 34-year-old Pippo Inzaghi, just returning to the squad after a month out with injury, on the bench.

The biggest worry for Milan, however, remains World Player of the Year, Kaka, who has been resting a sore knee. Arsenal's coach, Arsène Wenger, will breathe a huge sigh of relief if the Brazilian's name does not appear on the teamsheet. The player's personal press officer said last week that Kaka would have to "stay still for a while and do some physio," adding "there is no need for an operation but he will probably miss the Arsenal match". However, it is unlikely that Ancelotti will risk leaving his star player out for such a season-defining game.

By contrast, Mancini has such an embarrassment of attacking riches that he can afford to pack the Brazilian striker Adriano off on loan to Sao Paulo in Brazil. The Swedish striker Zlatan Ibrahim-ovich will be looking to add to the five goals he has scored in this season's Champions' League, probably alongside the Argentinian Julio Ricardo Cruz, who is a perfect foil for the Swede. Fellow Argentinian Hernan Crespo – and the Honduran David Suazo – are other alternatives.

Sao Paulo offer to help AC Milan's Ronaldo

2008-02-17T07:42:00.000-08:00

Sao Paulo have offered to help AC Milan striker Ronaldo's recovery from knee surgery.

Brazil's Sao Paulo stepped in to offer Inter Milan striker Adriano a place to play during his treatment for depression and now they could house another struggling star.

It's been suggested Sao Paulo will seek to take Ronaldo on-loan from Milan and help him recover before sending the player back to Italy midway through next season.

1000!!! Maldini

2008-02-16T13:49:00.000-08:00

From the game at the Tardini stadium there still remains an important number, with three zeros. In fact, Paolo Maldini managed to reach the 1000th appearence of his splendid professional football career. The Captain, who came in to replace Jankulovski in the second half, thereby reached a magnificent target. In June he will quit, and will leave behind an extraordinary legacy, a technical and human baggage which will be tough to equal.

Players quotes (Parma vs Milan)

2008-02-16T13:48:00.001-08:00

EMERSON:

"In the second half we played a great match, especially compared to the first half when we played poorly, the only thing we lacked was a goal. We know that having so many games close together takes its toll, but a team like Milan always has the responsibility to win, when we go on the pitch we try to give our all and give everything. Personally I'm doing well, it's my second game from the beginning, I only have to try and get back the match rhythm, that's what I'm missing right now even though it's difficult if you don't play regularly. I always try to give my best when I come on the pitch and also tonight I tried to give my best, but the most important thing is to win."

ALESSANDRO NESTA:

"It was an important match, unfortunately it went like this, we wasted another chance to go past Fiorentina, especially because in the second half we played much better, but the road is long and there is still a long time to reach fourth place.
Tonight I was calm because I had rested and when you have the chance to skip a match you are certainly more in form the next game.
Now we have Arsenal, a very tough match, but we are ready."

PAOLO MALDINI:

"Tonight I played my one thousandth match from the first minute, these are numbers which will remain in history, too bad we did not get the three points, but it's OK to have highs and lows. We have reached the fourth place, even though we have played a game more than the rest, but we are certainly in a better situation than a month and a half ago. We are definitely going for that fourth place.
Now we have Arsenal, but we are the defending champions, we might get back some players and the environment in the stadium will undoubtedly be fantastic.
I would like to dedicate this target to my family, particularly to my wife who always followed me in these years and always stood by me."

Ancelotti quotes (Parma - Milan)

2008-02-16T13:46:00.002-08:00

Adriano Galliani talked about Milan's performance in the 0-0 draw at the Tardini stadium of Parma:

"Tonight we had some difficulties, we improved in the second half when we changed our formation. In any case there is still a long battle ahead, there's time, now let's see what Fiorentina will do. Once again Kalac did very well, he's a certainty, but we already knew he was a great goalkeeper, otherwise we wouldn't have bought him. Now let's hope we get back Pato and Seedorf for the Champions League match in London and go there with a full squad, except of course for Ronaldo."

Also coach Carlo Ancelotti was positive on the team's second half:

"We were too scared in the first half, Parma played at a very high rhythm. Probably in the first half we were also still tired from the game against Livorno. But ours was not a physical problem because we improved in the second half and attacked with more vigor, we controlled the match and did not drop our pace in the final part of the match, showing a good overall condition."

"The objective was always to reach the fourth place, today we can say we've reached it even though Fiorentina have a game in hand of course."

"Kaká played a good match while Nesta was extraordinary. Kalac confirmed the high level of performance he's been giving lately. Now we have the match against Arsenal, we are confident."

IT'S OVER PARMA-MILAN 0-0

2008-02-16T13:46:00.001-08:00

At the 'Tardini stadium of Parma, Parma-Milan finished 0-0 on the second anticipated match of the 23rd matchday of Serie A.
These were the starting formations:

MILAN: Kalac; Cafu, Nesta, Kaladze, Jankulovski; Gattuso, Emerson, Ambrosini, Serginho; Kakà; Inzaghi

PARMA: Bucci; Zenoni, Couto, Falcone, Castellini; Dessena, Morrone, Cigarini, Pisanu; Reginaldo, Lucarelli

Parma president willing to sell Cigarini to AC Milan

2008-02-16T13:44:00.001-08:00

Parma president Tommaso Ghirardi has revealed he sounded out Giovanni Trapattoni about taking over from current coach Mimmo di Carlo.

Trapattoni has since taken the Republic of Ireland job and Ghirardi said: "I did contact Trapattoni and talked with him. But I insist that I am confident of Di Carlo's capabilities."

The Parma supremo also revealed: "I'd like (AC Milan striker) Pippo Inzaghi to close his career here. I could give Milan Luca Cigarini, who is surely the only genuine heir to Andrea Pirlo."

Milan to renew Ronaldo deal

2008-02-16T13:42:00.000-08:00

Milan are interested in offering Ronaldo a new contract, according to the Brazilian's solicitor.

Ronaldo ruptured a ligament in his left knee against Livorno on Wednesday and has since been ruled out for nine months.

The 31-year-old's current contract at the Rossoneri ends on 30th June, but solicitor Fabiano Farah is confident that Milan will offer the striker a new deal despite his career-threatening injury.

"Everything makes us think that the club are interested in renewing his contract," Farah told Terra.

"Vice-president (Adriano) Galliani has already expressed this desire.

"Ronaldo wants to return to playing, but his primary aim is to get better and have a good rehabilitation.

"He is the type of person that continues right to the end in his challenges, he has always won them.

"He is a born fighter and I am sure he is ready for this new battle."

Dolce Gabanna photos shoot

2008-02-15T10:41:00.000-08:00

parma - milan called up players

2008-02-15T10:37:00.000-08:00

Here are the 21 called up players for tomorrow:

GOALKEEPERS: Dida, Fiori, Kalac;
DEFENDERS: Bonera, Cafu, Jankulovski, Kaladze, Maldini, Nesta, Oddo, Serginho;
MIDFIELDERS: Ambrosini, Brocchi, Emerson, Gattuso, Gourcuff, Kakà, Pirlo;
STRIKERS: Gilardino, Inzaghi, Paloschi.

Milan comfort Ronaldo but no talk of new deal

2008-02-15T10:34:00.000-08:00

AC Milan have yet to commit to a new contract for injured Ronaldo after the Brazil striker was ruled out for at least nine months following knee surgery.

The 31-year-old's deal runs out in June and, with question marks hanging over his career, the European champions are not guaranteeing him a fresh contract despite saying they hope he plays for them again.

Former Real Madrid player Ronaldo underwent surgery on his left knee in Paris on Thursday after being carried off in Wednesday's 1-1 Serie A draw with Livorno, only his sixth appearance in an already injury-plagued season.

The three-times World Player of the Year sustained a similar injury while with Inter Milan in 2000 but came back to help Brazil win the 2002 World Cup.

"Milan will do everything so that Ronaldo's desire to be a great champion returns," coach Carlo Ancelotti told a news conference on Friday, without mentioning a new contract.

RONALDO DESIRE

Dutch midfielder Clarence Seedorf told the BBC he feared his team mate's playing days could be over but Ancelotti said that was premature.

"No one can know if Ronaldo's career is over or not," said the coach. "I can't know and neither can Seedorf.

"Only Ronaldo can know and he knows what he is up against. It all depends on his desire."

Milan said before the injury Ronaldo's deal would be renewed if the often-overweight striker recovered his fitness and form.

The club are not rushing into a decision over whether to give him a short-term contract as a carrot to get fit.

Chief executive Adriano Galliani said the injury was not as bad as the one suffered eight years ago and Ronaldo would probably stay in the Paris hospital for a week.

The Brazilian could continue his rehabilitation in Milan or with his son in Madrid, he added.His father Nelio Nazario da Lima told reporters in Paris: "My son is used to fighting and I am sure he will return to playing."

Ronaldo is the all-time leading scorer in World Cup finals with 15 goals in three tournaments.

Leonardo quotes about ronaldo conditions

2008-02-15T10:29:00.000-08:00

Leonardo, who's currently in Paris to stay close to Ronaldo, explained that the Brazilian 'had a calm night. Now he only has to rest. Yesterday he had an emotional day. Ronie knows what he has to go through and what he has already been through.

I think he is ready.' Nelio Nazario, Ronaldo's father, added: 'He still has a lot to give to the football world, he will come back to play.'

AC Milan will outbid Barcelona for Chelsea's Drogba

2008-02-15T10:01:00.000-08:00

AC Milan are ready to break the bank for Chelsea striker Didier Drogba.

Gazzetta dello Sport says Ronaldo's knee injury has kicked Milan into action as they seek a new centre-forward for next season.

Drogba has declared an ambition to move to Barcelona, but that won't put off Milan president Silvio Berlusconi, who is prepared to go head-to-head in any bidding war for the Ivory Coast ace.

Ancelotti declaration during the eve of AC MILAN - LIVORNO

2008-02-12T19:43:00.000-08:00

“Doubts and certainties for tomorrow? There will not be Pato or Kaka. Gattuso will return, just like Gila, following his suspension of last Sunday. For the rest, we must evaluate those who played on Sunday. Probably Nesta will not play, because he has not yet recovered from the back problems, and even Maldini, who I must rest for one round. Pirlo and Ambrosini are fine, they have recovered and will be available. Pato is a bit behind Kaka. Ricky will be available against Parma. Ronaldo? It’s a condition not physical problem. There is the possibility of making him work well this week and propose him against Parma. Gattuso is fine, he has recovered very quickly, also thanks to the great application that he had in under taking the treatment. He is particular in this, he’s a great professional. Seedorf is fine, he recovered from the ankle injury. Gourcuff? Tomorrow could be a chance also for him."

“If Inzaghi has difficulty in his recovery, Paloschi will play from the start. Otherwise he will start from the bench and Inzaghi will play. Pippo with Gila? It’s a possibility, at most we shall put a traffic light! (he jokes and laughs). Paloschi is very young, just like Pato, and he still has the possibility to form himself and grow. Pato is already physically formed. Alberto will surely stay with us next year, the intention is of adding him to the squad of the first team. If I was moved after his first goal? Something incredible happen, at times football can reserve these unexpected emotions and surprises for everyone. We hoped in the goal, but to happen for real it was a great surprise. To develop the young ones? Kaka and Pato have become first team players. At Milan to play you must be very good. For Paloschi it’s different, he must grow, acquire personality and knowledge, we need more caution.”

“The young ones give enthusiasm, I see them careful. In the case of Pato and Paloschi, they seem to me very mature and settled, without the danger of easy enthusiasms. Milan is a team which manages to add in the best way any type of age. No one pays the fact of being added to the team. A normal rapport is created between the team mates, also amongst the younger ones and the most expert."

"With the arrival of Camolese, Livorno changed gear as it climbed up the standings and found the right goal scoring vein of Tavano. It’s a healthy formation, just like Siena was. Even the Amaranti played on Sunday. From a rhythm point of view, I think that we shall have less difficulty than in the last game, where we found problems tied to the long inactivity of many players who were coming back following an injury. It’s very important to have recovered them, they will useful for us from now onwards.”

“The team is doing well, because it's evaluating well the moment. Tomorrow we consider it as a great chance. From when we started again, we did more from the points level than what we thought we could do, we almost always won. Tomorrow we have the great chance of returning to the fourth place.”

“Referees? They make mistakes because to ref is not easy. They made mistakes towards everyone. There is no subjection. More errors in favour of Inter? Just chance. The appeal of Catania on Materazzi? It’s something to ask the club, but it has already happened before that a player who is not fine on Wednesday recovers for Sunday.”

“Ronaldo? On Sunday he was not in the best condition to play, if I had other possibilities I wouldn't have sent him on the pitch. Paloschi from the first minute was excessive in my opinion, so not to charge him too much. On Sunday I appreciated Ronie's will to help out, despite the fact that he wasn't in good condition. If Ronaldo finds the right conditions, his contract will be renewed. He has problems tied to the conditions, which he did not manage to find due to the numerous injuries. We have passed a period of emergency and we still are. Now Inzaghi has recovered, Kaka and Pato will do so in a week's time. We can risk of not having Ronaldo in the best form."

“Returning in fourth place could be an advantage, but we know that the fight will continue till the end, as we face great opponents. The training camp of Dubai did us well, it was an important period, especially for those like us who have the possibility to work during the week. If we think that from now until May we will only have two weeks without work, from the 9th until 16th March and the 13th up to 20th April, we have little time to develop a certain work of physical and tactical work. You find it difficult to train, from every point of view."