1 week ago
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Ahead of tonight’s game between AC Milan and Roma, the legendary full-back Cafu was interviewed by Gazzetta dello Sport, having played for both teams during his career.
Cafu got his breakthrough in Serie A with Roma, joining the club from Palmeiras in 1997. He managed to win the Scudetto with the Giallorossi in 2001, and two years later, he signed a contract with Milan. He joined them on a free transfer and you could definitely say that it was a good signing.
In addition to the Scudetto in 2004, Cafu also won the Champions League with Milan in 2007 (even if he wasn’t a starter at that point), so he knows a thing or two about winning. More specifically, winning trophies with the Roma and Milan shirts.
Interviewed by Gazzetta dello Sport, the Brazilian said that he expects an entertaining game between two very good sides tonight. He also said that Milan and Roma definitely should aim for the Scudetto, seeing as they have done so well so far.
Is Roma-Milan a Scudetto clash?
“Without a doubt, yes. Inter are strong, but the Giallorossi and Rossoneri are in the top four and must aim high. Even for the Scudetto.”
What kind of game are you expecting?
“It’s exciting and spectacular because two great teams will be facing off. Both are achieving significant results. Perhaps even better than many could have imagined at the start of the season.”
How much credit does Gasperini deserve for this super start?
“A lot because he’s a great coach and has the experience to turn any team around. His career speaks for itself: when they let him work, he has always done amazing things.”
The change from Ranieri to Gasp was painless…
“I expected it because the team started with the right mentality already from the training camp, with the desire to always achieve something more. I see a strong and focused team that wants to go far. And I think they’ll do it.”
“Far away” from the Scudetto?
“Why not? Never before have they been able to fight for the title like this season. Now the European competitions will start again, and if Inter reach the Champions League playoffs and Roma qualify directly for the Europa League round of 16, the Nerazzurri could slow down.”
Meanwhile, with Malen, Gasperini has found the striker he was looking for…
“He started well, but when the team plays football and has Dybala, everything is easier. Even for the forwards. When Paulo is well, he gives a big hand to whoever he’s around.”
Impressed by your compatriot Wesley?
“A lot. The way he’s playing… I really like him on both the right and left. He has certainly had no problems settling in, and Gasperini’s football is showcasing his qualities.”
Let’s move on to Milan and Allegri: what merits do you give Max?
“He put the players in the right positions and gave them peace of mind. That wasn’t a given for a team coming off a difficult season. With him, the team started to bounce back from pre-season. It can’t be a coincidence…”
Leao, despite muscular problems, has scored seven goals in Serie A and is often decisive…
“I’ve never had any doubts about Leao being a great player. Last season had its ups and downs, but you can’t argue with someone like him. It’s a good thing he didn’t leave during the transfer window.”
Unlike Theo Hernandez, who was sold to Al Hilal. Is that a regret?
“As a former full-back, when a strong full-back leaves Milan, a bit of regret is inevitable. Who knows what he would have done under Allegri? On the left, however, Bartesaghi is proving he has the physique, personality, and technical ability to go far.”
If you think Roma are fighting for the Scudetto, Milan…
“The same thing. Because they are second in the standings and don’t have any European commitments. Working all week to prepare for the weekend’s match is a great advantage: it allows you to have less tired legs and clearer ideas thanks to training.”
In this respect, are the Rossoneri the favourites tonight, given that Roma played in the Europa League on Thursday?
“The Rossoneri may be more rested, but the Giallorossi are enthusiastic because they are doing well. Both in the league and in Europe.”
You were used to playing every three days…
“And I assure you that when things were going well, I didn’t even know what tiredness was… In fact, I always wanted to play because we were fighting for the Scudetto and the Champions League. Sometimes the mind is more important than the legs.”
Who will you be cheering for tonight?
“I will enjoy the show.”
What is your fondest memory of your experience at Roma?
“Without a doubt, the Scudetto won with super teammates like Totti, Batistuta, Aldair, Samuel, Montella, Emerson…”
Would that Roma win the Scudetto today?
“100%”.
And your best memory at Milan?
“When I lifted the Champions League trophy in Athens, it was a very special and emotional challenge. For my teammates, it was a rematch for the trophy lost to Liverpool in Istanbul. For me, it was the chance to win the only trophy I was missing.”
Would that Milan win the Champions League today?
“That team would have an excellent chance.”
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