Alessandro Costacurta has backed AC Milan to challenge for Europa League glory this season, positioning the Rossoneri among the competition's primary contenders alongside Juventus. The legendary former defender believes both Italian clubs must reach at least the semi-finals to justify their ambitions, speaking to SportWeek about his optimism surrounding the Diavolo's current trajectory under new management.
Milan's European Credentials
Costacurta laid out clear expectations for AC Milan's continental campaign, naming the club as a legitimate favourite for the trophy. His assessment reflects confidence in the squad's quality and depth, though he tempered expectations by acknowledging strong competition from established English sides. Bournemouth drew particular mention as a potential dark horse, indicating the strength of Premier League representation in this year's competition.
The former Milan stalwart emphasized that anything less than a semi-final appearance would constitute underperformance for a club of the Rossoneri's pedigree. This standard reflects both the squad's investment and the historical weight of European competition at San Siro, where Milan's tradition of reaching major finals remains a benchmark for success.
Costacurta's Amorim Assessment
Beyond trophy projections, Costacurta expressed genuine intrigue at Ruben Amorim's tactical philosophy and approach. The manager's willingness to provoke errors in opposing teams, even at the expense of tactical risk, resonates with the former defender's appreciation for aggressive, pressing football. This strategy aligns with modern attacking football principles where high-intensity pressing forces turnovers in dangerous areas.
Costacurta's endorsement carries weight in Italian football circles, given his 16-year association with Milan as a defender and his subsequent media prominence. His statement that he feels "more willing to watch Milan this year" signals renewed excitement around the project, suggesting Amorim's arrival has rekindled interest among the club's faithful and respected figures. The path to Europa League success begins immediately, with every fixture counting toward the semi-final objective Costacurta outlined.
