Tare claims Leao is ‘much better’ physically and denies Como result will determine title

AC Milan’s sporting director Igli Tare has claimed that Rafael Leao is doing better physically, but denied that not beating Como would end the Scudetto pursuit.

Milan are under pressure to win tonight for a couple of reasons. First of all, Como are on the hunt for revenge after their defeat back at the Stadio Sinigaglia last month, which caused a big debate among pundits, fans and even coaches about style of play versus results.

Secondly, there is the fact that Inter triumphed over Juventus at San Siro on Saturday night to move eight points clear, albeit with one more game played. Tonight is that game in hand for the Rossoneri and if they fail to win, many would argue the Scudetto race is done before March.

Igli Tare spoke to DAZN not long before kick-off at San Siro and he answered questions on the title race, Rafael Leao’s fitness and Saturday’s drama in Inter-Juventus. MilanNews relayed his words.

Is a win needed to stay in touch with the Scudetto dream?

“Absolutely, but don’t get too hung up. Because there are still 14 games to go, including tonight’s. We need to try to build on the work we’ve done so far. It won’t be an easy match: all that matters for us is a win tonight, it would be very important for the standings.”

So tonight isn’t decisive for the Scudetto?

“Absolutely not. It’s a game worth three points, there are still a lot of points to be earned. We’re coming off two important wins in a row, away from home, and we just need to repeat what we’ve done so far.”

Photos by Marco Luzzani + Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images

Leao is back in the line-up…

“The positive thing about Leao is that he’s been much better physically over the last 10 days. The problem is still there, but he’s much better, and you can see it in training.

“Tonight he has a great opportunity to showcase his qualities, which we all know so well. However, we’ve never questioned his abilities.”

A thought on the Bastoni-Kalulu incident that happened on Saturday?

“Absolutely not. These are things of the past, they will happen again in the future. They’re not going to end. Obviously, these things aren’t good for football.

“We all have to take a step back and try to give referees peace of mind so they can do their job as best as possible. But there’s no point in discussing this situation now; we need to look forward with positive energy.”