Rabiot confident ahead of Udinese game: “We are Milan and we have to win”

Adrien Rabiot has insisted that AC Milan are ready to go out and play at their best against Udinese despite Massimiliano Allegri being suspended.

As Allegri said in his pre-match press conference, Milan are facing a key early-season test against a team that actually go into this game higher in the table, having taken seven points from three games.

The Rossoneri suffered a home defeat to Cremonese in the first game of the season, before winning against Lecce and Bologna, keeping clean sheets in both. Udinese meanwhile have already shocked one Milan club, beating Inter 2-1 at San Siro.

This is a test that Milan will feel they have to pass, because between now and the end of November they will face Napoli, Juventus, Fiorentina, Atalanta, Roma, Inter and Lazio in a nine-game stretch. Building on the positive recent trend defensively will also be critical.

Rabiot spoke to Sky just before kick-off at the Bluenergy Stadium to preview a game which could have an important bearing on where Milan go. MilanNews transcribed his comments.

You started well…

“I had a good week and a good match. I’m not 100% yet because I hadn’t played for a month before the Bologna match. I still have to work and train with the team, but I feel good mentally too.”

Photo – AC Milan

Why did Allegri say this match is the most important?

“Because there are four games until the break, and this is the first. It’s crucial to continue growing. They are strong and have proven it. We are Milan and we have to win.”

What’s different without Allegri? What did he tell you?

“He spoke to us at the hotel, and then there’s Landucci, his assistant, who does the same thing. For us, nothing changes. We’re ready.”

Speaking to Milan TV, Rabiot added…

“It’s going very well. I trained 3-4 days before the Bologna match, then I got straight into it. I know my teammates like Maignan, Fofana, and Nkunku well, and I felt comfortable straight away. I know the coach and his staff well; I was ready even though I hadn’t played for a month. I’ll be ready tonight too.

“For us, winning is the norm. Udinese are a very physical team, who also know how to play football very well. They’ve started the season well. We’ll have to be strong and win battles. We have a lot of quality young players: I’m confident that if we show what we did this week, we’ll do well.”