Tare comments on Jashari being the ‘future’ and Maignan situation: “The right path together”

AC Milan sporting director Igli Tare has once again suggested talks with Mike Maignan over his future will happen, while he is looking forward to seeing Ardon Jashari in action.

Milan have bad memories when it comes to the cup at the Stadio Olimpico, having lost the final 1-0 against Bologna on May. Tonight they face a Lazio side eager for revenge after Saturday night’s defeat in the Serie A contest at San Siro.

Rafael Leao got the only goal as the Rossoneri won 1-0 to move back top of the table – thanks also to Napoli winning at Roma – but the late non-penalty drama has dominated the headlines since. Lazio even deployed a ‘silenzio stampa’ after the game, refusing to talk to the press in protest.

It promises to be a hostile atmosphere in the capital tonight, given that Lazio’s ultras have declared that ‘hell’ will be waiting for Massimiliano Allegri, who ‘influenced’ the decision a few days ago.

Lazio return, Jashari, Maignan and more

Tare knows the Laziali well having played for and been a director at the club for 15 years in total, and he spoke to SportMediaset in the build-up to kick-off, with his words relayed by MilanNews.

What emotions do you have for your return to the Olimpico?

“I won’t deny it, I’m incredibly emotional. I had the pleasure of saying goodbye to so many people who have loved me over these 17 years. We know we’re playing against a very dangerous opponent: they want to go all the way.

“We’re well prepared, and we’ve made some changes to the lineup to give players like Jashari a chance, since we’ve been waiting for him for so many months.”

Photos: Claudio Villa/AC Milan via Getty Images

Finally Jashari starts – is he the future of the Milan midfield?

“Having a coach like Modric is an advantage for every player. They have a great relationship and talk often. We’re all confident in Ardon, and it’s been evident in the way he’s trained with the team over the last two weeks. We’re happy this ordeal is over.”

How are you finding your role? Are you happy?

“We’re happy with how the team reacted. It wasn’t easy, especially because we’ve changed so much. Max did a great job at improving the team’s mentality and the players. The results are visible, but we’re not even halfway there: it will be a season full of excitement, but also of challenges.”

Maignan’s renewal?

“I can’t hear you… (laughs) I’, joking, let’s focus on the match. Mike is extraordinary and a fabulous goalkeeper, we’ll try to find the right path together in due time.”