Gilardino praises Allegri’s work ahead of ‘special’ Milan return with Pisa

Alberto Gilardino has admitted that it will be a ‘special’ night for him as he leads his Pisa side into battle against AC Milan.

In his younger days as a striker, Gilardino was regularly compared to Filippo Inzaghi due to his predatory instinct for scoring goals, often from deep inside the box. As fate would have it, he took over from Pippo at Pisa in the summer, who went to take charge of Palermo.

Gilardino got a move to Milan in 2005 after his exploits with Parma. With the Rossoneri he won the 2006–07 Champions League, the 2007 UEFA Super Cup and the 2007 FIFA Club World Cup.

Spells at Fiorentina, Genoa, Bologna, Guangzhou Evergrande, Palermo, Empoli, Pescara and Spezia would end his illustrious career, and he also made 57 appearances for the Italian national team.

Gilardino previews Milan trip

Gilardino has actually been linked with the Milan head coach job in recent year, but it came to nothing. He  spoke to SportMediaset on the eve of what will be an emotional return to San Siro for him, with his comments via MilanNews.

What do you want to see tomorrow?

“To take to the field tomorrow evening at San Siro we will need to be sportingly happy but also very proud to play against the top of the class. We know how strong Milan are and we will need to be very humble in defence, but also confident when we have possession of the ball.

“We know who we are playing against, but in football nothing is impossible. I need everyone. Whoever makes themselves available and whoever is fit will be part of my decisions.”

Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce/Getty Images

What do you expect from Milan?

“We’re talking about a team that has rediscovered great defensive unity, and the credit goes to Allegri. He’s highlighted the individual qualities of his players because he knows they can make the difference. He’s brought his mentality to the table in a very short time, and he’s a role model for everyone.”

You have a past at Milan too…

“Milan is a wonderful part of my life and my career. It’s natural that playing against them again has a special effect, but it’s always a pleasure to return to what, for me, is one of the most beautiful stadiums in the world.”