Forza Milano

A VERY SPECIAL ENCOUNTER

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 09:03:00 +0000

At the M&T Bank Stadium Milan and Chelsea missed each other by a few minutes. The English left the stadium at 19.22, while Milan arrived at around 20.00. First, Carlo Ancelotti's press conference.

BALTIMORE - Tonight the Italian journalists present at the press conference of Chelsea and their coach Carlo Ancelotti felt strong emotions. The coach who led the Via Turati club for 8 years wore the English side's outfit and it had a strange effect. The conference started with a few answers in Italian. Time seemed to have stopped, but the topics immediately made it clear that wasn't the case: "Everything is going well, I am satisfied of the team and I notice they are following me with attention. There's great availability. Milan? I have not seen them yet, but I'm in contact with Leonardo who tells me things aren't going badly. Tomorrow we'll see. I know I have a very good team, which is already well-oiled and is composed of great champions."

The coach was then asked about the "hot" topic of Andrea Pirlo's future, and earned a few laughs from the journalists because of his ironic answer: "What I know is that Andrea will play with Milan's shirt tomorrow... no one knows the future. We'll see."

Ancelotti was also asked about more general topics, like Inter's transfer campaign and the attitude of Mourinho after the match against his Chelsea team, who won: "I think the Ibra-Eto'o swap is a particular thing. I don't know who will be advantaged, but I think that being two great players they generate a lot of discussion, because they are two champions. I don't want to touch the second topic, because I'm not interested if Mourinho said it was just a training match for them. I know we had to try certain things and that these things worked. I don't need to add anything else."

The conference ended more or less like this, but soon after that Abramovich's team left the stadium. When they did it was 19.22 and Milan would have arrived soon after. A postponed meeting? No, although yes... but only by a few hours, because after signing some autographs in the stadium, also Milan leave to reach their hotel and after a few minutes Shevchenko and Ancelotti appear. They did not stay for long, but they cared about this meeting more than about tomorrow's match.
Many embraces and demonstrations of reciprocal affection... perhaps also a bit of emotion...
Certainly a very special meeting.

LEO, THE USA AND THE FUTURE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 06:19:00 +0000

The Milan coach always feels something special when he returns to the States. His memory is tied to the 1994 World Cup, but now he thinks exclusively of Milan and the team's future.

LOS ANGELES - The training is just finished, the American photographers and the local televisions try to 'steal' a few images of the Rossoneri. The new Milan coach is one of the most targeted ones. He is still looking for winning solutions, and perhaps for a few players able to help an already strong squad. One of the names is Luis Fabiano, who's still being negotiated for: "Luis Fabiano is undoubtedly a good player. He is the center forward of the Brazilian national team but the negotiations have to go on. I don't think we can speak of a risky move, because he could've been ready already at 23. What he lacked was a big club. If he shouldn't come we'll see. His name was named after Dzeko. They were both players we were interested in, but we must remember that Milan don't go on the market just to buy a name. If we do it, it's because he's useful to us, otherwise we can keep these. We have a good squad and shouldn't rush things."

Another name for the future could be David Beckham?
"David has had and still has a good relationship with all of us. He was very useful when he wore our shirt, he's also a nice person and the fact he came to visit us shows how much he cares about us. It was really a nice gesture. David is without doubt a very intelligent player and to say he could've been part of my plans is not strange at all, because he can play in any system."

It's not easy to start working again after a long journey...
"It's true, but we travelled well and we are also doing well. Today it was right not to work too hard, so we thought we would make the team do only aerobic work, only running."

What formation can we expect tomorrow against L.A. Galaxy?
"We will establish that tomorrow after we evaluate those who are able to play. Practically everyone, but we are also awaiting indications from Gattuso, Kaladze and Bonera. Certainly it's early to say for Pirlo and Zambrotta, who will work on their own, because they came back after the rest, because of the national teams. We'll see how Pato is doing... he got married, went on vacation... but he's 20 years old so he could make an effort."

From here, in the States, your adventure officially starts, considering you are facing international teams...
"Yes, it's true. Coming here always reminds me of the 1994 World Cup, which we won against Italy. We didn't play the final here but the memories travel. But I'm also realising that in my new coaching role there is less time for personal memories. I have to dedicate more time to the team and concentrate on teaching them something new. The team comes before everything."

MILAN: IT'S ALREADY A VICTORY!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 18 Jul 2008 16:02:00 +0000

"I think any player dreams of playing for an important team like Milan. It's truly a special moment. Wearing this shirt is already a victory for me." - THE DECLARATIONS OF RONNIE -

MILAN - Starting from 20,30 at the Executive Room in the San Siro stadium the official press conference to present Ronaldinho was held. Here are the declarations of the Brazilian star who answered the questions of the numerous journalists present:

"This is a really special moment in my career. I think any player dreams of playing in a team as important as Milan, for this club's greatness and the importance of their players. It's truly a special moment and wearing this shirt is already a victory for me.

In Barcelona I spent a very positive period in my career, I managed to win important titles with my team mates, then for a period we didn't win anymore so we decided together to separate. I'm happy to be here and I'm convinced that with Milan's shirt I will be able to win more important titles."

How do you think you will play with Kaká?
"I'm very happy to be able to play with Kaká, I consider him one of the best in the world. He's also a great friend. Here at Milan I have a lot of friends and I don't think there will be any problems in my adjustment. I have played many times with Kaká in the national team winning important things as well."

When you came to San Siro for Demetrio Albertini's goodbye match you found a crowd who already cheered you a lot...
"Yes it was a really special moment, I did not expect it. A few minutes later the match would start, so there should have been some rivalry, but I saw the special affection the crowd had for me. I practically feel at home already.
I've also had the chance to speak with many Brazilians who have been at Milan and they've all spoken very positively about the environment in this club and that only increased by curiosity. I am very motivated."

Did you ever think of joining Manchester City?
"In the period I was injured I only thought of getting better. But I knew there were negotiations with Milan."

What shirt number will you get?
"We haven't made a decision about that yet, I will tell you when it's been decided."

Do you think your involvement in the Olympics could take away some important time in your adjustment at Milan?
"I don't think so. I consider the Olympics a very important competition, especially for Brazil who have never won it. This is a very important moment in my career, everything's changing and I think that this engagement will not interfere with my adjustment in the team."

The fans welcomed you very warmly, did you expect it?
"I thank the fans for the welcome they have given me and the affection they have shown. This is something that motivates me even more to repay them with my enthusiasm."

What do you think of Italian football?
"The Serie A is one of the most competitive leagues in the world, I can't say anything about the Italian league because I haven't had the chance to play in it yet. But I am very positive and I'm sure everything will go for the best."

Do you think you will miss playing in the Champions League?
"Anyone who has had the chance of playing in a prestigious competition like the Champions League knows its importance. Not playing in this competition this year only gives us extra motivation to make sure Milan goes back to playing in this tournament again soon."

How do you feel about the match against Inter when you will meet many of your friends?
"I think each game has the same importance. I don't think one match is more important than the other. Personally I think only about preparing well for each game I play and I'm happy to see that some of my countrymen have the chance to play in important Italian clubs."

The Italian press gives a lot of importance to the life of footballers off the pitch, how influential is your non-football life?
"I've always had a regular life and I will continue to live the same way now. I have never had these problems and I will continue like this to be able to give my best."

It's been a very long negotiation...
"My brother Roberto has always taken care of negotiations, my only duty has always been to play football. I've come to Milan with the idea of winning and I hope to win more titles for this club which has already won so much, along with my team mates. I hope that my experience, even though I am still young, can help us to win. I think this is the right moment to come here and I'm certain of the respect and the trust of this great club, then it will be up to the coach to decide for me."

PUMA EMERSON THE RETURN

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 02 Jul 2008 13:25:00 +0000

The “Puma” Emerson wants to scratch again. Following the surgery of May 13th, the Brazilian feels ready to face a new season, certain to give the contribution which everyone expect.

MILAN – There is a player who more than others in the Milan squad wants to give a push to his Rossoneri’s career. It’s Emerson, a past characterized by injuries and a present full of optimism for a form which is coming back. The Brazilian spoke to Milan Channel during the program “Studio Milan” and spoke about his expectations:

“I always thought that this club gave me a lot, but unfortunately due to physical problems, I couldn’t give back in the best way these attentions. Emerson can give a better contribution to Milan than what we saw last season. As I said before, living with a fracture is not easy and often the pain was stronger than the will to train. Following the operation of May 13th, today I can say that I feel very good. Now I can’t exactly say when I will be back with the group because the verifications on my conditions must still be done. The sensations are still very good, the times of recovery following the injury were indicated in about two and a half months, but if we had to fix a date for my return I can easily say that August 17th for the Trofeo Luigi Berlusconi I will be available."

RONALDINHO AND BRAZIL

“Ronaldinho is from my same country and therefore I met him during this summer. He was very sorry for what is happening and I can say with certainty that there is a great will and determination inside him. He confided with me that there have been contacts with Milan, but I don’t know more than this. This is a period where there is a generational change. Many young players must still understand what it means to play for Brazil’s shirt. Unfortunately the qualifications to the World Cup are not going very well, but this happened many times, then Brazil managed to qualify. For the last world cup, we did not have problems to qualify, but then everyone knows how it went. Better to meet difficulties in the qualifications and then play a World Cup at our best.”

FLAMINI

“In the two games played with Arsenal, he gave me a very good impression. He’s a very gritty player who never gives up. Players with this mentality are very useful to any team and I believe that he can do very well with us.”

SUMMER ROSSONERI

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Jun 2008 12:57:00 +0000

Milan's pre-season calendar is starting to take shape. The reunion will be on 16 July at Milanello. Let's compare, date by date, the summer that awaits us with the one of last year.

MILAN - In little more than a month the 2008-2009 season of Milan will start. On 16 July the Rossoneri will reunite at Milanello for the start of the work for the new season, which will start in the Carnago sporting center. But Milan's summer has several steps.

Carlo Ancelotti's team will play their first friendly in Lombardy, as they did in the last two summers, when they faced Lecco. On 29 July there will be the Tim Trophy with Juve and Inter, while on the 31st there will be the departure for Moscow. In the Russian city the 'Russian Railways Cup' will be held, in which Milan will face Lokomotiv Moscow, Chelsea, and Sevilla. On 17 August there is the traditional 'Luigi Berlusconi Trophy' against Juventus.
Before the start of the season (31 August), the Via Turati club will most probably play two friendlies against an as yet unknown opponent.

The summer that awaits us is partially similar to the one of last year, even though then there was the European Supercup final to be played in Montecarlo. Let's compare July and August 2008 with July and August 2007.

ALL OF MILAN'S GAMES IN THE SUMMER OF 2007

Milanello, 23 July 2007: Reunion of the first team
In Lombardy, 29 July 2007: Milan-Lecco
Moscow, 3-5 August 2007: Lokomotiv Moscow-Milan-Real Madrid-Psv.
Sevilla, 9 August 2007: Betis Sevilla-Milan, Centenary Trophy of Real Betis Balompiè
San Siro, 14 August 2007: Milan-Inter-Juventus, Trofeo Tim
San Siro, 17 August 2007: Milan-Juventus, Luigi Berlusconi Trophy
26 August 2007: 1st matchday Serie A, Genoa-Milan
Montecarlo, 31 August 2007: Milan-Sevilla European SuperCup

ALL OF MILAN'S GAMES IN THE SUMMER OF 2008

Milanello, 16 July 2008: Reunion of the first team
In Lombardy, before 26 July 2008: first friendly against an as yet unknown opponent
Turin, 29 July 2008: Milan-Inter-Juventus, Tim Trophy
Moscow, 31 July-3 August 2007: Lokomotiv Moscow-Milan-Real Madrid-Psv Eindhoven.
San Siro, 17 August 2008: Milan-Juventus, Luigi Berlusconi Trophy
.Between Moscow and Berlusconi Trophy: possible friendly, opponent to be decided
31 August 2008: 1st matchday Serie A
.Between Berlusconi Trophy and start of the season: possible friendly, opponent to be decided.

NOW TWELVE FINALS

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 18:10:00 +0000

The day after the elimination from the Champions League, Adriano Galliani felt the need to reach Milanello to express some concepts to the entire team – THE DECLARATIONS OF ADRIANO GALLIANI -

MILANELLO- These are this morning’s declarations of general manager Adriano Galliani to ‘Milan Channel’ at the Rossoneri’s sports centre of Milanello:

“Tonight I wasn’t able to sleep, just like many other Milan fans I think, and this morning I feel the need to come here to Milanello to express some concepts. First of all I wanted to thank the players, coach, doctor, trainer, physiotherapist all one by one for the marvelous six years of Champions League.

“I wanted to remind that to arrive in the final of the Champions League we need twelve games and that’s exactly the number of games which await us from now until the end of the season. In these games we will have to win again a place in the Champions League 2008/09. Winning two consecutive Champions League is almost impossible. I also reminded them tha in the last three editions of the Champions League, it happened also to Barcelona to exit in the round of 16 and the year before to Liverpool. Nothing happened to these last three Champions League winners, because Barcelona continues to be Barcelona, Liverpool continues to be Liverpool and Milan is always Milan.

“Now twelve games await us which we must play at our best, fundamental as much as twelve finals and we hope to find ourselves with the usual Champions League music. Already on Sunday we shall to go on the pitch determined, with a lot of will to do well and with a positive attitude.”

GOODBYE, EUROPE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 18:02:00 +0000

Milan does not go through and waves goodbye to the Champions League. After six magnificent years, the Rossoneri wave good bye to the great competition, six years in which they have always been at the highest levels, winning it twice.

MILAN – Arsenal goes through to the quarter finals of the Champions League. Milan leaves the competition after trying to beat a very good opponent. The game presented itself in the best way, with the support of an entire stadium: full with the fans chanting one song after another to support the team, already from the first minute. Carlo Ancelotti fields a formation similar to the one of the best occasions, with Seedorf and with Pato from the first minute next to Inzaghi. The return of Alessandro Nesta has given a further confidence boost in the defensive department; next to him Kaladze, on the sides Oddo and Maldini. In the middle of the pitch a wonderful Gattuso, Pirlo and Ambrosini. Kaka also makes a return, maybe not in perfect conditions, but without too much space to move around with the ball.

In the first half Milan started out well. The first twenty minutes see the Rossoneri’s team attack, move the ball around, try solutions forward and even some shots on goal. Few, to be honest (only that of Kaka and Pato, with a light touch which did not surprise Almunia), but the rhythm was there. In the second part of the first half, the visitors took the measures and started to produce game. Also in this case, not many chances followed, but what made the difference was the ball circulation, the speed of movement and the same movement without the ball, which offered various solutions to the player with the ball. For the entire first half the attackers had a lot of difficult to have ball possession and therefore it was difficult for them to participate in the attacks. The first 45 minutes, overall, have been equal and the 0-0 was fair.

The second half proved decisive, especially in the final moments of the game. The tiredness, with the passing of the minutes, was felt and therefore the game felt it too. At times a bit slow and with various errors. Filippo Inzaghi tried to run all over the forward line, and tried to remain on the offside line, but was then exhausted and substituted by Gilardino. Also for the number 11, things did not go particularly well, but always tied to the problem of the ball circulation. For Kaka the spaces reduced further and consequently also the difficulties of Milan. In the moment in which the moves were alternating from one side to the other, in which the attacks were from one side to another, the Arsenal goal arrived. Minute number 84: ball lost in midfield, Fabregas steals it, finds space in the middle, raises his head, shoots…and the ball ends behind Kalac (decisive in various occasions). 8 minutes later and Milan pushes in the opponent’s end, but with a counter attack, the second goal of Arsenal arrives with Adebayor who scores from zero centimetres away following an assist by Walcott.

The Rossoneri’s adventure in Europe ends here. Now the anger and strength must be used in the league. Only through the Italian competition we can find the most important and fascinating one. Therefore, come on lads and thanks for what you have done in these six years.

ONLY RONIE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 14 Feb 2008 20:20:00 +0000

The draw against Livorno, the standings, the next league games...wait a minute. Everything can and must wait. Today, in the head and hearts of all Milan fans, this is ONLY Ronie's day.

MILAN - It cannot end like this. Legsnd don't end. Let's hope that last night a light has not been switched off. These are just some of the phrases re-grouped in the thousands of letters, mails and messages which are reaching the headquarters of Milan in via Turati, the Rossoneri's pres office and the editorial staff of Milan Channel and the Official Website.

Amongst the numerous, warm, big demonstrations of affection from the 'Milanisti', there are those who were not able to sleep last night, those who wish that Ronie slept. There's also a blog, 'fenomenononmollare' (Fenomeno don't give up), which proves the impact that the small crater which opened in Ronaldo's knee in the penalty area of Livorno and his tears had on football lovers.

Ronie, Ronie and again Ronie. Milan, who will remain very close to the Brazilian start as a club, and the official Rossoneri communication media will give space and voice to all fans who want to give their encouragement to Ronaldo. A Phenomenon. And the phenomenons never give up. This is what the fans and lovers of Milan told us. The word also of the fan who wrote to us, telling us he would have preferred if he had hurt himself...

POSITIVE THOUGHTS

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 02 Feb 2008 22:58:00 +0000

Fiorentina is improving and growing year after year. We are playing well, not always the players are at hundred percent, but for Florence we are recovering well - ANCELOTTI'S PRESS CONFERENCE -

MILANELLO - These are the declarations of Carlo Ancelotti during the press conference on the eve of Fiorentina-Milan: "We must hope that Gattuso can recover as soon as possible and try to substitute him in the best way, Fiorentina-Milan is very important, it's a direct clash, and we play against a team which has more chance than Udinese to finsh fourth. Juve has more points and they do not have extra commitments apart from the league, these are huge advantages for them even if the league is very long. If they lose Buffon, it's not advantage to lose the number. Tomorrow we play a lot of chances. Fiorentina is a lively team, each year that passes they mature more, they are improving. Fiorentina played like us on Wednesday and played a tough game. Even they have some problems with injuries, so we're equal. Mutu is a difficult player to mark, because he moves away from the middle, and takes full advantage of the spaces to move inside. We shall have to pay particular attention for everyone. Milan has recovered after Reggio. If we play on Wednesday night and then on Sunday night, there is time to recover and find the best condition."

The other topics: "The fact that Gilardino scores more away from home is just a coincidence. In any case at home we have found more difficulty. The draw? We always go to win the game. The win would allow us to recover more quickly, then we shall see how the game goes. Emerson is improving and finding his condition, but he's not at 100% yet. He plays more in the narrow spaces and playing in front of the defence is the thing which works best for him. Pirlo enjoyed the role he had at Reggio. It's a position he manages well, he knows how to do many things, even for his past as attacking midfielder. However Pirlo is the best midfielder in the world. His role is well defined, even though he can move for some games. I don't think that a defeat would push us out of the battle. We love to nurture ourselves with positive thoughts. Lippi? I did no read it, is it a head of today? I'm not questioned by any marriage councillor in this sense (joined our coach). Me at Barcelona? Why no? Even though there isn't just Barcelona in Europe...(joked again our coach)."

Carlo Ancelotti again: "Dida is working. At Reggio he wasn't at his best, but he was available. For this reason he went on the bench. Kalac proved to be serious and professional. He did well i nthese games: the evaluation of the moment is this. Kaka? It's a moment of the season, with many games, in which not all are fresh. If Kaka for a game does not do things at his best, it's absolutely understandable. You cannot always be 100%. Ronaldo? The new injury is not positive. More than worried, we are sorry. The objective is to recover him. For the contract renewal, it's normal to wait for Ronaldo to recover and can give an important contribution. Pato has a problem to his adductor, but it's something we can handle. From the physical point of view he does not have problems. It's a small problem he has from October. In Florence we play with three attackers, Seedorf is universal. Gilardino? We're not giving him to anyone. For him it will be a game like any other. Whoever will have the opportunity of giving his contribution, he will give it at 100%. Whoever will be used, he will give everything. Gilardino was fundamental also for eight minutes at Udine. I was very sorry for not adding Serginho to the Champions League list, after all he had many problems, so it was him I chose."

MILAN, AN EXAMPLE OF FAIR PLAY

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 23:34:00 +0000

This evening, Adriano Galliani was in Barcelona to receive the prize assigned to Milan from daily newspaper 'El Mundo Deportivo' for the fair play shown by the club during the European Supercup final in Montecarlo.

BARCELONA - Vice President and Delegate Administrator of Milan Adriano Galliani was in Barcelona tonight to receive the Fair Play prize which has been assigned to Milan during the sixtieth edition of the 'Great Gala of Sports' organized by the Spanish daily 'El Mundo Deportivo'.

The ceremony for the award was held, starting from 20.00, inside the Palace of Congress of Barcelona and rewarded the best athletes and Spanish and Catalan sportspeople in all disciplines, as well as presenting a few symbolic homages like the one for Milan.

Adriano Galliani received the award assigned to A.C. Milan for the attitude held during the European Supercup final on 31 August 2007 in Montecarlo (Milan-Sevilla 3-1) when the Spanish club had to cope with the premature of the player Antonio Puerta.
Milan dedicated their victory to Antonio and for the occasion the rossoneri went on the pitch with the name 'Puerta' on their shirts.

Among the memories of that day was the gesture of Clarence Seedorf who left the pitch showing the name of Puerta and beating his chest, the one of Kaká who pointed to Puerta's name after scoring his goal, and the one of the rossoneri fans who displayed a banner in honor of Antonio on the stands.

A few days after winning the European Supercup, also Uefa recognised the fair play shown by Milan during the game against Sevilla. In fact, Uefa President Michel Platini sent a complimentary fax to Via Turati on 3 September 2007 aimed at Adriano Galliani.

Alexandre Pato

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 22:39:00 +0000

Alexandre Rodrigues da Silva (born September 2, 1989 in Pato Branco, Paraná), better known as Alexandre Pato, is a Brazilian striker currently playing for Italian club AC Milan.

Early life

Alexandre started playing futsal at the age of 3. His ability soon became known all around the south Brazilian state of Paraná. After being praised by many of his managers, the teenager went to Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, to try out for Gremio, his favourite team as a child. However, his family decided that he should sign for Internacional. In 2001, at the age of 11, he moved there and started sharing housing with 83 other teenagers that, much like him, wanted to make a name for themselves in the Internacional first team.

In 2000, when Alexandre was 10 years old, x-rays from a broken bone revealed that he had a tumor in his arm. The doctors realized that the tumor would become cancerous in two months if not removed. Alexandre's family could not afford the surgery to remove the tumor, but the doctor, Paulo Roberto Mussi, was a family friend, and operated for free. This event was particularly significant because it occurred in a very crucial year when Alexandre was working towards a professional career with Internacional.

He adopted the nickname Alexandre Pato ("Alex the Duck"), after the city where he was born.

Club career

Internacional

Pato began his playing career at Internacional in Porto Alegre, where he played for both the youth and senior teams between 2001 and 2007. On his first team debut, at the age of 17, Pato helped Internacional to a 4-1 win over Palmeiras on November 26, 2006. Pato had created three of the goals and scored the other goal.

Pato scored Internacional's first goal of the 2006 FIFA Club World Cup on December 13 in the semi-final game against Al-Ahly Cairo, helping the team win 2-1 and a spot in the final. With this goal Pato has taken Pelé's record as younger scorer in the history of official FIFA competitions (17 years and 102 days, against Pelé's 17 years and 239 in the 1958 FIFA World Cup against Wales). He was substituted in the final of the competition, before teammate Adriano Gabiru scored the winner, ensuring the title for Internacional.

Pato was linked to several high profile clubs including AC Milan, S.L. Benfica, Juventus, Inter, Chelsea and Arsenal.

A.C. Milan

Incumbent European champions A.C. Milan officially confirmed the signing of Pato on August 2, 2007. The transfer fee paid amounts to the minimum fee clause in Pato's contract with SC Internacional for €22 million.

Due to Italian football regulations regarding non-EU minors, Pato was unable to play official matches for Milan until January 3, 2008, when the Italian transfer window and registration reopened. However, AC Milan was allowed to include the player in friendlies and training beginning September 3, 2007, one day after his 18th birthday. Pato made his non-competitive debut in a 2-2 draw against Dynamo Kyiv on September 7, 2007 and scored a header. As of January 4, 2008, Pato's transfer to Milan became official.

Pato scored his first Milan goal in his Serie A debut against S.S.C. Napoli in a 5-2 home victory on January 13, 2008.

International career

He helped Brazil win the 2007 South American Youth Championship in Paraguay, which qualified the country for both the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Canada and has been selected by Dunga for 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China.

Career honours

Internacional

* Winner
o Campeonato Brasileiro Sub-20: 2006
o FIFA Club World Cup: 2006
o Recopa Sudamericana: 2007

Brazilian national football team

* Winner
o 2007 South American U-20 Championship

UNITY OF INTENTS

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 14 Jan 2008 21:08:00 +0000

This morning at Milanello a press conference was held during which Adriano Galliani communicated the extension of the contract with Adidas until 30 June 2017. - THE PRESS CONFERENCE -

MILANELLO - Today at 12.30 Milan's Delegate Administrator Adriano Galliani held a press conference on the renewal of the contract with Adidas. Here is what he said:

ADRIANO GALLIANI:

"These three great international trophies we've won in 2007 allowed Milan to become the most title-winning club in the world and that gives us a lot of joy. At the start of last year we were first along with Real Madrid with fifteen trophies won in Europe, while it was more difficult to make comparisons with South American teams because the competitions are different, but still Boca Juniors were on top. Destiny allowed us to once again meet Liverpool and play the against Boca Juniors, after winning the Champions League on 23 May and the European Supercup on 31 August. Finally on 16 December we managed to play this 'World derby' and becoming the most title winning club with 18 trophies.

Personally I like the Adidas slogan which says: 'Our stripes, their stripes, when they come together something fantastic and extraordinary happens.' And that's what happened. The relationship with Adidas originated in 1998 and Milan immediately won a Scudetto, and also another championship, an Italian Supercup, a Coppa Italia, two Champions Leagues and two European Supercups, and finally a Club World Cup. I think these are enough reasons to be satisfied about the relationship with Adidas, and I think Adidas are equally satisfied with their relationship with Milan, which is why we've decided to extend this relationship until 30 June 2017.

This relationship is more than a simple sponsorship deal, but a communion of intents for everything concerning the world of football between our Club and the Adidas group. The whole world sees us engaged in various beneficiary activities like this year's Adidas Cup, an important event for Fondazione Milan and we have the intention to promote other initiatives.

I'm convinced that with Adidas we will do other things together and aside from maintaining the merchandising relationship, from 1 July 2008 it will be Adidas to take care of the distribution of non-football related Milan products, as our contract with Warner will expire. We will give hand this important department over to Adidas and will therefore be tied through three different contracts: the sponsorship on the shirt, the merchandising and the distribution of all non-football related Milan products."

Along with Adriano Galliani, also Adidas Delegate Administrator Herbert Hainer participated to the press conference, here is what he said:

"We are very satisfied with the performances, the victories and the results obtained by Milan and we are bound by this partnership. It's a great pleasure for me to announce we have decided to extend our agreement until 30 June 2017. It's a great honor for me to be able to announce that the most title-winning club in the world, Milan, the number one football brand in the world, and Adidas, have decided to prolong this partnership which has been so successful until 2017.

The relationship between Milan and Adidas is very special. Since 1998, when we joined with Milan, the club managed to win nine more titles and for me this is also an opportunity to congratulate all those who put in the effort to achieve this success. The collaboration works well, aside from these victories, and we work every day to improve our marketing and to value what is the most important sport in the world, football.

Through this new deal with A.C. Milan we intend to promote a large amount of articles tied to Milan aside from the traditional categories like sporting shoes, sporting clothes and accessories. For us it's the first time and we are very proud to initiate this new deal."

At the end of the press conference, Adriano Galliani answered a few questions to the journalists:

Are Milan richer now after this deal with Adidas or because from yesterday Pato is available?
"I'm happy with the current Milan squad. Pato is an important reinforcement for a squad rich in every department. Alexandre Pato should be allowed to grow, but we should remember that Milan won all their trophies so far without him. He's an extra player in the most title winning club in the world, but Milan arrived to this point with other champions like Maldini, Kaká, Nesta and our captain won 13 of those trophies on the pitch.

Yesterday was a very positive evening for the result, because the team is doing well and aside from Inzaghi, our coach can count on the entire squad. There was a great atmosphere at San Siro, there were more than seventy thousand spectators to watch a beautiful pre-match event with all our trophies. Then the match went as you know and it's only the start of our recovery in the league because as you all know the objective for this year is to repeat 2007."

Ronaldo?
"Ronaldo only has to do well physically. If they called him Fenomeno there should be a reason, it's enough for him to be doing well and go on the pitch to have a consistent level of performance. There is no hurry for the renewal neither from his side nor from ours. I hope he's gotten past this bad period of six months he was involved in, now he only has to continue doing well to help us reach the objective we have set and if he does well then the contract extension will come without any problem."

THE COMPARISON

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 23:04:00 +0000

Winter preparations 2007-Winter preparations 2008, Malta-Dubai, without Yokohama and after Yokohama: here are all the dates to compare between the beginning of last year and the start of 2008

MILAN - Two different preparations, two different moments. A year ago the Rossoneri in Malta were coming off two consecutive victories in the league but with a long way off the fourth place. This year the Rossoneri in Dubai are world champions and nevertheless have the objective of winning as many matches as possible in the league. Here is the comparison:

MALTA 2007: 2 January departure from Malpensa in the evening. 3-4-5 January double training session. On 6 January return to Milan for the Luigi Berlusconi trophy, Milan-Juventus 3-2. On 7 January 2007 the return to Malta without the Azzurri internationals, who were at the Quirinale with President Giorgio Napolitano to receive their awards after the World Cup triumph. 9 January, friendly at the Ta'Qali stadium between Birkirkara (a team of the highest Maltese division) and Milan, which finished 5-0 to the rossoneri. On 10 January, the return to Milan to face, the next day, Arezzo at San Siro for the Coppa Italia (2-0 to Milan thanks to goals by Gilardino and Inzaghi). 14 January 2007, at 15.00, Milan-Reggina in the league: 3-1 for the rossoneri.

DUBAI 2007: 2 January departure from Malpensa in the afternoon. 3-4 January double training. On 5 January a trip to the desert with the whole group. On 6 and 7 January more trainings. 8 January 2008, friendly at the "Al Maktoom" stadium of Dubai City between the United Arab Emirates national team and Milan, which finished 2-0 to the rossoneri. On 9 January, today, the return to Milan for a day of rest. Tomorrow, 10 January 2008, the training sessions will resume ahead of a very important series of appointments: on sunday 13 January at 20.30 Milan-Napoli in the league, wednesday 16 Catania-Milan in the Coppa Italia, sunday 20 Udinese-Milan in the league, wednesday 23 Atalanta-Milan (league match to be recovered), sunday 27 Milan-Genoa in the league, and Wednesday 30 Reggina-Milan in the league.

SATISFACTION INTACT

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 23:12:00 +0000

"We are World Champions, today we played in a way that legitimated this title and no defeat can take away my smile and cancel this state of happiness." - THE WORDS OF ANCELOTTI -

MILAN - Here are the declarations made by Carlo Ancelotti after Inter-Milan 2-1:

"We are World Champions, today we played in a way that legitimated this title and no defeat can take away my smile and cancel this state of happiness.
Of course it's a disappointing defeat, it came in particular circumstances, with many unfavorable episodes. The Inter players did very well, they also honored our World Cup victory in a very original and unexpected way. It was only too bad that Ambrosini was not treated very well by the fans.
We are a more agile, more technical team compared to Inter, we tried to win the game with those qualities.
With the new year our objective will be to earn as many points as possible until 20 february and try to arrive at the Champions League eighth finals with a better position in the standings. Pato will become part of our group, let's hope Ronaldo will be back soon too, considering that today he was authorised to run again.
Regarding the Dida episode, it can happen that a goalkeeper makes a mistake, I don't like to put all the responsibility on a single player, he remains impermeable and we still have complete faith in him."

I OBEYED THE COACH!

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 04:30:00 +0000

'Before the match the coach asked me how I was doing and whether I was going to score a goal for him, well I did! Perhaps I should have scored two, but it's OK like this. The team played an excellent match.' - THE WORDS OF THE ROSSONERI -

CLARENCE SEEDORF

"I have to thank the team for playing such a good match, I missed a few goalscoring chances at the beginning and I got angry at myself. On the second chance I had, they did well to defend it and on the third occasion I touched the ball with my chin and lost my coordination. Unfortunately at the end the goal did come!
Before the match, the coach asked me how I was doing and whether I was going to score a goal for him, and indeed I did! Perhaps I should have scored two, but it's OK like this.
This new ball is a little difficult to control, but when you hit it well it's even more difficult for the keeper to grab it."

ALBERTO GILARDINO

"Unfortunately I did not convert two chances I had. On the first one, I was too close to the goal when Oddo played the ball in, and it was grabbed by the keeper, then later Ambrosini sent in a good cross, but I was not well balanced. I'm still happy because it was not an easy game like some people expected. Urawa have some quality players, very well prepared tactically. In the first half we did not manage to score, then fortunately came Clarence's goal which allowed us to break the deadlock. In any case they showed tactical strength, they knew us and that's why they marked Clarence and Ricky very well. It's great to have reached this final without having wasted too much energy, and that will certainly help us on Sunday against Boca Juniors."

FILIPPO INZAGHI

"Even though I did not manage to score, this evening I'm very happy because the most important thing was getting into the final which allows us to bring home this Cup.
On the move of the goal I managed to go to the near post, bringing along a few defenders to free up Clarence who had no problems scoring. The match wasn't easy and we knew it, it became a bit difficult in the first half, but in the second half we did well to maintain our concentration.
I was happy to see this great affection shown towards me, it would be nice to lift this cup in front of the Japanese crowd which always shows me a lot of respect."

PAOLO MALDINI

"Just before the match Clarence told me it was a match we needed to win at all costs, and after he scored he ran straight to me, but at the time I was warming up on the sidelines with my back to the goal.
Seedorf did brilliantly today, he was the most dangerous man on the pitch.
I'm happy for him, and I'm happy we will be playing this Cup final against Boca Juniors. We had the chance to prepare well for these two games, it doesn't happen a lot that a team gets so much time to prepare for a mini-tournament like this, and it certainly helped us.
I think that on Sunday Boca will try to slow the game down with their ball possession, we'll have to avoid falling into this trap. I think the start of the game will be crucial."

KAKHA KALADZE

"It will be Milan-Boca, I really expect a lot from this match. Against Urawa it was tough, but I wasn't surprised. We created a lot of chances, but we couldn't find a goal for a long time.
Boca Juniors are a good side, they have technically skilled players but I'm convinced that if we play like Milan can we will win."

MASSIMO ODDO

'I'm very happy. Today we obtained another important result, I hoped to play and eventually win the Champions League when I came here, now I've done that and also won the European Supercup, and now we have this World Cup final. It's the best for me, the team, for this group.
Today we did really well, it wasn't easy, it was as if we were playing an away game, considering we were playing against a Japanese team. We were very concentrated throughout the game, and in the end we got the result we wanted. In the first half we had some difficulties, in the second half we were consistent and we were more dangerous with our strikers and midfielders.'

RICKY KAKA'

'Today, as always, I tried to give my best for the team, even though my foot hurt. It wasn't easy today, on the contrary, but we did well, very well. In the first half I played in a more withdrawn role, while in the second half I acted more as a second striker.
I'm truly very happy: this year everything was different compared to 2003. I came here as a Golden Ball winner, we met many fans, there was a party atmosphere at the stadium, as always happens when there's a European team coming to play in Europe. Until now it's been a very positive experience. Now we have to confirm ourselves on Sunday, we want this trophy. Next Monday there's also the verdict on the Fifa World Player, but before that we have the Final on Sunday. It's a special match, a true World final.'

MASSIMO AMBROSINI

'It's incredible that we will face Boca and that to get there we had to beat Liverpool. It's a nice coincidence, perhaps unique. It's certainly a chance we shouldn't miss. We are lucky, because we have the opportunity of playing for such an important trophy, against the team that took it away from us four years ago, just like we did in the Champions League final last May.
Today's match wasn't easy, it was a difficult match for many reasons, we did well. We kept the game under control, playing well in certain parts of the match and not so well in others, but it's good like this.
Boca? We saw them play the other day, they seemed like a talented team and therefore they are unpredictable. They also have some problems beating the Tunisian team. We'll certainly need to be concentrated.'

IT’S ALL ABOUT DESTINY...

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 04:17:00 +0000

After beating Urawa Red Diamonds, there is just one thought now: the final of the Club World Cup. The group, made up of 60 people, is satisfied, but the hard work starts now.

After the semi-final played and won against Urawa Red Diamonds, the tones are those of those who know that they have done something important, but that the decisive step is still unfinished. Adriano Galliani and Carlo Ancelotti commented this way the first 90 minutes of the Club World Cup.

GALLIANI:
"I always said that I fear more the semi-final than the final, due to the environment, our opponents did their best. They closed themselves well and tried to put us in difficulty. However, we did well. Once again we saw the best player in the world: Kaka. He was stoic, because he played for long stretches of the game with a broken nail with blood coming out. He was in pain, but his hand was bandaged in one way and he held till the end. Clarence, just after the end of the game, told me that he could have scored 3-4 goals…but the important thing is that he put it in once. Now we play the third final in this season, which is extraordinary and wonderful in my opinion. What can I say about destiny? After reserving the revenge against Liverpool, now it puts against Boca again. It would be fantastic to take back home the third trophy of the year." After the analysis of the game, the General Manager faced the argument of the individuals: "Maldini and Seedorf, before the kick-off, did a great thing, they spoke to each other. But I must say that all of them have been concentrated for the past week. The team feels the commitment and importance of the trophy. There are 60 people here, including the players, practically all of Milanello came here 10,000 kilometres away to do everything well." Even President Berlusconi is happy, as Galliani spoke to him soon after the end of the game: “I called him every day and I spoke to him also after the game. He’s happy, because of all of his commitments he wasn't able to be here, but it's like he is." Before ending, a comment on the many Japanese present at the stadium with the Rossoneri’s shirt: “We have many fans in Japan. They confirmed to me yet again the extraordinary sales of these past days of shirts and gadgets. I think that also on Sunday there will be many fans at the stadium and that they will be on our side and will wear the shirts of Pirlo, Inzaghi and Kaka. We shall arrive to the final with one less day of rest? It doesn’t matter, after all one of the two teams had to play before the other. We don’t complain.”

ANCELOTTI:
“The objective of everyone was the final. With the game of tonight we have reached it and now we must do everything to obtain the most. Now let’s think to prepare it in the best possible way and win it. We have prepared today’s game well, in a particular way. We shall be a bit tired, but we shall bring out the necessary energies. It wasn’t easy to play and win it, because they tried to bring out their qualities. I expected that they could play like this, with drive, solid and trying to take advantage of the counter attack. We tired them out, we waited for them to decrease their rhythm, then in the second half Kaka found the right space. I got a bit angry for the yellow card to Nesta, because it was a hurried decision, but then everything went well." In the head of the Rossoneri’s coach, there’s just Boca Juniors: "It’s a very young team, but capable of great qualities, which have been masked in the first game, playing at low rhythms and without great accelerations."

The Club Photo

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 23:36:00 +0000

A.C MILAN

Inzaghi joy as Milan and Celtic progress

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 23:21:00 +0000

Filippo Inzaghi's record 63rd goal in UEFA club competition ensured AC Milan reached the last 16 of Europe's élite competition as Group D winners, while Celtic FC went through as runners-up despite the defeat.

In the hat
Inzaghi's 70th-minute strike took him a goal clear of Gerd Müller and capped a controlled display by the European champions, who progressed from pole position for the sixth successive season. Celtic, who could have no complaints after being comprehensively outplayed, joined the seven-time tournament winners in the first knockout round thanks to SL Benfica's victory at FC Shaktar Donetsk.

Kaká recognition
Kaká had been warmly applauded by both sets of supporters when presented with the Ballon d'Or before kick-off, and the visiting fans were cheering again six minutes into the match upon learning that Benfica had taken the lead at Shakhtar in the other Group D game. With a Portuguese success in Ukraine enough to guarantee Celtic's advance alongside Milan, irrespective of the result here, it went a long way towards explaining both teams' cautious start.

Live-wire presence
One player whose determination stood out was Inzaghi; the 34-year-old was a livewire presence at the tip of Milan's Christmas tree formation, sending a shot too high on the half-hour, then narrowly missing Giuseppe Favalli's low centre. Jiří Jarošík had Celtic's only attempt on goal in the opening 45 minutes, cutting inside his markers before driving straight at Zeljko Kalac. However, the half belonged to the European champions, Kaká having curled an effort narrowly wide from range and Clarence Seedorf – on his 100th UEFA Champions League appearance – blasting over on the stroke of half-time after being played in by Favalli.

Pirlo free-kick
With Benfica 2-1 up, the second half began with Celtic supporters in full cry, but they were almost silenced within a minute when Andrea Pirlo fired a long-range free-kick just too high. A kind rebound then fell into the path of Inzaghi but the No9 was forced too wide to be able to direct his shot on the turn on target. Milan were dominant yet were almost caught out by a ball over the top from Stephen McManus. Scott Brown raced on to it but blazed a first-time attempt wide.

Inzaghi delight
Milan swarmed forward in response and carved out a gilt-edged chance for Inzaghi to claim his record. Favalli's delivery was inviting, Inzaghi was unmarked at the far post, and with an open goal at his mercy, the Italian international somehow sent a close-range header back across goal and into the grateful arms of Artur Boruc. It was merely delaying the inevitable, though, and on 70 minutes, Inzaghi's moment came. Kaká won possession in the Celtic half, timed his pass to Cafu to perfection, and the full-back cut the ball back from the byline for the striker to turn in from six metres.

Final reckoning
Celtic's only riposte came in the form of another Brown effort, which required Kalac to make another stop at his near post, but Boruc was the busier of the goalkeepers in the closing minutes, saving from Cristian Brocchi's fierce strike and Inzaghi's follow-up. Not that it mattered in the final reckoning.

Seedorf completes century of matches

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 23:15:00 +0000

AC Milan midfielder Clarence Seedorf will become the seventh player to make 100 UEFA Champions League appearances after being selected for tonight's Group D encounter with Celtic FC.

Three triumphs
The 31-year-old, a European champion with AFC Ajax, Real Madrid CF and Milan, joins team-mate Paolo Maldini in the '100 club', alongside Raúl González, Roberto Carlos, David Beckham, Oliver Kahn and Luís Figo. "The desire is even greater now I'm coming towards the end of my career," Seedorf told uefa.com before last season's Athens final triumph over Liverpool FC. "You want to take as many trophies home as possible. The clock is ticking."

Further company
The Dutch international – the only player to have won the UEFA Champions League with three different clubs – could be followed in reaching three figures by Manchester United FC midfielder Ryan Giggs next week. Giggs is one match shy of the mark. Gary Neville and Paul Scholes, meanwhile, have clocked up 98 and 97 appearances respectively.

MILAN AND INZAGHI FIRST IN EUROPE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 22:56:00 +0000

Milan win the group stage, Inzaghi is the record goalscorer in European competition history. Two important targets reached in a single night. The team needed only a draw, but the willpower brought about this result. And now for Japan.
Here we are again. Milan are giving their fans exciting European nights again. In an evening where there wasn't that much at stake, so to speak, the group showed an enviable determination particularly in the second half. But let's start from the beginning.

Before the match between Milan and Celtic, Kaká showed his Golden Ball to the people present at the stadium. The cold evening was warmed up by these emotions from the start.

The match begins. Milan have to do without Dida at the start, due to a problem to his intestines, and substitute him with Kalac. In defence Simic plays from the start, with Bonera beside him; Cafu and Favalli on the wings. In midfield Gattuso, Pirlo and Ambrosini. In front Kakà, Seedorf e Inzaghi.
Celtic, meanwhile, played with their usual 4-1-4-1: in front of the defence Hartley and in attack McDonald.

The first half went by without major emotions. There were very few chances for both sides. The goalkeepers didn't have anything to do for long. The only shots on goal came from Kaká (with one of his characteristic curling shots), who failed to find the net, and Seedorf (on a corner kick move, he tried a shot that went high). For the Scots, who played in a full green shirt, there was only one shot from McDonald but it didn't trouble Kalac.
Meanwhile, Simic had to leave the pitch due to a muscular problem to make way for Kaladze.

The second half was different. Milan started aggressively, and soon enough came the first and only yellow card, with Brown who got booked by the referee for a bad foul on Seedorf.
The Rossoneri pressed forward more, they raised the rhythm and the speed in the ball possession. The dangerous moves became more frequent. One came from Kaká, but his shot flew just over the bar. Another attempt of his finished to the right of Boruc's goal. But the Scots' goalkeeper had to capitulate in the 25th minute. It also became a historic moment for the goalscorer: Pippo Inzaghi. This goal not only became the match winner, but also allowed Inzaghi to go past Gerd Muller on top of the all-time goalscorers list in Europe with 63 goals scored, one more than Muller's total. The move that led to the goal was brilliant. Kaká works the ball on the right, serving Cafu in the area; the defender controls it, gets to the by-line and crosses it in... exactly where Pippo was. Boruc can't do anything about it and... it's a goal!

After the goal came a series of changes on both sides. For Milan, Brocchi came in for Pirlo and Gourcuff instead of Seedorf; the Scots, meanwhile, brought on Vennegoor for McDonald. There were very few opportunities for the striker, also because Milan were not about to waste their precious advantage.
The 90th minute arrived with this result, which was worth the first place... both for Milan and Inzaghi!!!

From now on, the team's attention can be turned completely to Japan. Have a good trip, Milan.

IMPORTANT RESULT

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Fri, 30 Nov 2007 01:06:00 +0000

"It was important to qualify for the eighth finals. The draw was right, we knew we didn't need to risk anything, the important thing was to bring home the qualification and we did." - THE WORDS OF SEEDORF –

LISBON - Here are the declarations made by Clarence Seedorf at the Lisbon airport, the day after Benfica-Milan (1-1):

"It was important to qualify for the eighth finals. Benfica did well to put us in difficulty, they created some good chances, but for us the most important thing was the result. We started well, in the first twenty minutes there was only Milan on the pitch, we managed to create a lot of chances, then we conceded the goal and misplaced a few passes. Milan showed compactness, risking very little in the second half. The draw was the right result, we knew we didn't need to risk anything, the important thing was to bring home the qualification and we did.

Concerning my own performance, I did well in the first 15 minutes, then I turned my ankle around and from a psychological point of view I did not have the same positive sensations I had until that point. Anyway, I managed to play 75 minutes and nowI have three days ahead to train and get ready for Saturday's match. I'd rather not miss any matches, if it had been up to me I would have played at Cagliari too, but I hurt myself on Friday so I didn't have time to recover. Some of my team mates, iike Gourcuff and Brocchi, have shown in certain games that they can be ready. The whole team always participates and gives its contribution. If I don’t feel fit enough to play I’ll be the first person to ask the coach to leave me out of the game, we have to be mature and maturity is at the basis of this team.

Now we have the home game against Juventus who are a team doing well physically, they’re in the upper half of the table, it’s a direct encounter and I expect it to be a great game. Also Milan are doing well and now we need a great Milan to beat Juventus and get the first home victory. Compared to other games played at San Siro it will be different because smaller teams are always closed up while against Juve I think we’ll have more space because they are a team with many champions and several individualities.”

ENTHUSIASTIC OF MILAN

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sat, 03 Nov 2007 20:01:00 +0000

"They have been three difficult months for me, but now everything's over. I have to think about training to be ready as soon as possible. I'm still very enthusiastic about being here." - THE WORDS OF RONALDO -

MILANELLO - Going back to work makes Ronaldo happy as he leaves behind the problems of the start of the season and is preparing to give his contribution on the pitch. Today the Rossoneri Phenomenon talked exclusively to Milan Channel's microphones. Here is what he said:

'Three months have passed since my injury, it's been a difficult period for me but now, I think, my problems have passed. I leave behind an injury that caused me many problems. Now I only have to use the trainings with the team and get back in form as quickly as possible.'

'Staying out of the team is never easy, mentally it was very difficult for me, also because I wasn't sure when I would return. It's been tough, but we had the necessary calmness to heal and work and now I think it's all over. I see the end of my problems.'

'I'm still very enthusiastic about being here and have the possibility to help this team. Last year things went well, I did well in the league. Now a new season starts for me, even if a little later. We are there now.'

BETWEEN GILA AND LIGURIA

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 01 Nov 2007 05:28:00 +0000

After the victory in Genoa finds serenity and even cracked a joke, asking political asylum to the Liguria region that always seems to do Milan good. Carlo Ancelotti hails Gilardino, who has never done so well at Milan.

GENOA - At the end of the match between Sampdoria and Milan, here are the words of administrator Adriano Galliani and coach Carlo Ancelotti:

GALLIANI

"The run-up to the top teams has not begun because they all won tonight, but now we have to become more consistent. I asked for political asylum to Liguria, considering we always do well around here, including also Montecarlo. We only have to understand how to unlock defences at San Siro, but I'm very happy about tonight's match. Serginho was very important to us, and Alberto Gilardino also did great. He's scored 41 goals in 106 matches, it's a lot and he will continue to do a lot for this team. Also Brocchi and Gourcuff did very well, but now let's focus on the match against Torino."

ANCELOTTI

"It was premature to speak about a crisis, at the moment we aren't consistent but we're alive. We have trouble unblocking matches, but once we do we generally do very well. It was normal Samp would play defensive tonight, but we insisted and played with a lot of pressure and rhythm. Brocchi, Bonera, and Serginho all did well, they haven't played a lot until now but they showed they can always do well, that's why they will be used more. We've played some excellent games, again, we aren't that bad. And Gilardino also deserves a word, in the future this match will have to be remembered when people say he doesn't score much, he's actually never done this well since joining Milan and once he starts scoring he doesn't stop."

RINO OPENS HIS HEART

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 21:06:00 +0000

"What made me grow was the birth of my daughter. Being a father made me understand that when young people are in difficulty they have to be helped." - THE WORDS OF GATTUSO –

MILAN - Here are the declarations made to Milan Channel's microphones by Rino Gattuso, who is a spokesperson for a 'Mont Blanc' store in Milan.

Rino, we see you are very committed to this cause. Have you decided to change jobs?
"Well, considering the period we're going through it might be an idea. Jokes aside, I think this event will be a positive thing that I accepted two months ago, and I'm very happy to be here today for this initiative of Mont Blanc.
It seems banal, but in reality there are many people that need to be helped, especially young people, who often have problems, so if I can be helpful and give a hand in some way I will do so from my heart."

What brought you to support these initiatives?
"What caused me to grow was essentially the birth of my daughter. Being a dad made me understand that when young people are in trouble they have to helped and that is what my Foundation promotes."

Unfortunately, though, from a football point of view, it's not a good period?
"This event and football are two different things: one is work, while today is a charity event. In football it's certainly a negative period, we have to look ahead because we can only improve."

What do you think about the words of President Berlusconi?
"The President has been at the head of a winning team for many years, we needed to hear his words. We are the first to be disappointed. Last year we were more or less in the same situation, then came an immense joy for all of us with the Champions League victory.
This year will be more difficult, but the important thing is to put this negative period behind us."

THE EVALUATIONS ARE MADE AT THE END

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 29 Oct 2007 20:39:00 +0000

Three points in five home games and four points in the last five games of the league are certainly very few in comparison to Milan's potential, but the 2007/08 Serie A season did not end yesterday

2006-2007
Points in the table after 9 league matches: 7
Points after 3 matches in the Champions League: 7 (first place)
European Supercup: did not participate
Club World Cup: not on the calendar
Tim Cup - Coppa Italia: not started yet

2007-2008
Points in the table after 9 league matches: 10
Points after 3 matches in the Champions League: 6 (first place)
European Supercup: Won against Sevilla
Club World Cup: on the calendar for December
Tim Cup - Coppa Italia: not started yet

Last year Milan had promised themselves to wait until the end to assess the situation, and the same goes for this year. It's very important to win again in the league,and the whole of Milan will do everything to reach that objective, but the assessments have to be made at the end of all competitions. Yesterday came a defeat in Serie A, it's a delicate moment, but the league did not finish yesterday: it ends on the 38th matchday. Also in other competitions, except one, the European Supercup which has already been won, everything is still open and everything can still happen.