Zambrotta: “Milan-Juve will be decided on the wings, Ibra looks fired up”

As the anticipation builds for the upcoming clash between AC Milan and Juventus, former player Gianluca Zambrotta shared his insights on what to expect from this iconic matchup. Having played for both clubs, Zambrotta brings a unique perspective to the table, as he explained to La Gazzetta dello Sport.

Zambrotta emphasised that the game will be determined by the performance on the wings. “Theo and Leao against Conceição and Cambiaso: there’s a lot of quality on the flanks,” he notes, highlighting the talent both teams possess in these crucial positions. He believes that “the flanks will be a beautiful challenge” and that it will be interesting to see how both teams utilize their wide players.

When discussing which team has more to lose, Zambrotta pointed out Milan’s current struggles in the league. “The ranking is evidently more deficient for Milan, which is in a bit of difficulty,” he states. He acknowledged that while Juventus is also in a competitive position, “Milan has to give something more at this moment.”

Zambrotta praises both managers, noting that “Fonseca has done a great job” at Milan and that he appreciates his calm demeanor and preparation for matches. On the other hand, he describes Thiago Motta as a young coach with a proactive mindset who is not afraid to experiment with younger players.

The conversation shifted to individual players, particularly focusing on Rafael Leao and Theo Hernandez. Zambrotta believes they are among Milan’s most talented players but emphasised their need for consistency. “What’s missing for them to become true stars is continuity,” he explains, “You can’t make the difference only every now and then. The examples to look up to? Del Piero, Pirlo, Seedorf: they were always on the ball”

Regarding Juventus, Zambrotta discussed the absence of Dusan Vlahovic and suggests that either George Weah or Kenan Yildiz could step in effectively. “Replacing him with Weah is the best choice we can make today,” he says, also mentionined Yildiz as a potential option.

Reflecting on Fonseca’s management style, Zambrotta commented on how he handles player discipline within the squad. “Inside the locker rooms, there have always been issues to resolve,” he shared, indicating that effective management is crucial for maintaining team harmony.

He also expressed confidence in Ibrahimovic’s new role at Milan, stating, “I see him fired up, but it’s still early to judge his transition from player to director.”

As for what fans can expect from the match itself, Zambrotta is hoping for an exciting encounter. “Let’s hope it’s like Inter-Juve,” he stated.

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