AC Milan manager Vincenzo Montella has insisted thathe wants to be in charge of the Rossoneri for many years to come, but refused to shun the idea of coaching at Juventus in the future.
Speaking on Thursday, ahead of Friday's match against the Serie A title holders, Montella pointed out that Milan have had their best moments of the campaign against Juve, but admitted that his side must be at their very best to get something from the match.
We are facing Juventus for the fourth time this season after two wins and a defeat? Of course, we're not undervalued anymore," he said toLa Gazzetta dello Sport (H/TRossoneriblog)
"But they're almost unbeatable, as the league shows,� Montella said. It will be a key game, decided on approach, interpretation and competitive spirit which, in our case, will have to be above average. We've had our two best moments of the season against Juve, in Doha and in the first game of the season. This time the result will be even more crucial for the table.
The fact that Cuadrado is suspended [due to yellow cards] and Juve ˜only' have Dybala, Higuain, Mandzukic and Pjanic up front? When you have attacking players who also sacrifice themselves in defense it's even more complicated for the opponent.
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"They've put in more attackers and maintained the same balance. Allegri has surprised me with his bravery and courage: if you consider that there aren't many replacements “ aside from Pjaca “ their new system might seem like a stretch. Without Cuadrado maybe we could expect one less attacker and doubling-up on one side."
Opening up on future plans, the manager said:If I see myself in the future as the coach of Juve? A professional doesn't rule out anything at the start of their career, so why not?
"Maybe Coaching Lazio would be more complicated, since in Roma I have a house in the other part of the city¦ When I was 17 there was talk of interest from Juventus, I was young and promising. Then I got injured and the interest was never firmed-up.
A long cycle with Milan? I'd like to. The important thing is to have the opportunity to grow together, I want to help the team improve and keep winning, everything depends on sharing objectives and being able to renew.
"It's not a question of staying for a year, three, ten or even of opening or closing a cycle. That's all theory, if you have a common purpose you can start from the same place. At Fiorentina, I had a contract, my family and I were happy, but I felt it was time to stop.
If Milan finish in Europe, then it would be a successful season and otherwise we'd have to start over? No, no¦ that's too simplistic. A lot comes down to the result, but not everything. I think it's more about an overall evaluation, which can be made regardless of coming sixth or seventh.
"My judgement is already positive, I'm happy with the growth and the attitude of the team. If the Champions League is no longer a target? Making up the places is difficult, but we must always have ambition."
Kavan Flavius is a regular contributor to the Official Chelsea Guest Fan Blog, find him on Twitter @KavanFlavius.