Seedorf suggests Milan can stay with the ‘big boys’: “European DNA”

Ahead of the beginning of the Champions League, Clarence Seedorf has offered his opinion on the new format, whilst suggesting how far AC Milan can go in the tournament. 

Although their European history is rich, Milan have struggled in Europe recently. Of course, there was the run in the 2022/23, but the less said about the ending of that the better. For a club with the history of the Rossoneri, European success is an expectation, and they have fallen short for a while now.

The seventh success in Europe was achieved in 2007. A night for revenge in Athens, after the events in Istanbul in 2005. Unfortunately, the club has not replicated the success since, and they are approaching 20 years since last winning the competition, which would equal their previous longest wait.

Questions are in place about the Diavolo this season, and doubts are in place about their chances in Serie A, let alone the Champions League, and today, Seedorf spoke about the club’s chance in the competition when speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport.

Clarence, does the new Champions League format convince you?

“I’m curious. I liked the previous formula, the wait for the big matches was part of the spectacle. But let’s give the new format time to show what it’s like.”

Which team are the favourites?

“History tells us that the team to beat is Real Madrid, but many can play it. The gap has narrowed and there are no easy games: that’s the beauty of it. I am convinced that as always Ancelotti will find the balance at Real, even with Mbappé.

“Having the same system will allow Guardiola to continue at City to work on details, something he is very good at. PSG’s squad remains among the most competitive in Europe. Mbappé’s exit could make the group more responsible.”

Why is the Champions League special?

“It is the main goal of any footballer at club level. Winning the Champions League is the ambition of someone who wants to establish himself in the football that counts, and it is very difficult to do that. When I won my first Champions League when I was 19, I was not fully aware of the feat. With time you realise the complexity of the tournament.”

What path do you imagine for the Italians?

“Inter, Milan and Juventus have the duty and the roses to obtain direct qualification to the second phase. Atalanta will have matches that are not easy, but they can aim high. Bologna can treasure this experience and enjoy it. As for the big three, Inter is a mature and solid team, Milan has European DNA and Juve has come close to winning the Champions League many times.

“When you are able to compete, victory depends on the details. To give continuity to the results there is a need to facilitate investment, also simplifying the bureaucracy that allows teams to equip themselves with infrastructures that make a difference in terms of turnover.

“All stakeholders must move in the same direction because they have a common interest in growing the sector and generating a positive return from a socio-economic point of view.”

Can you tell me one reason why each Italian team can do well in the Champions League and one reason why they can struggle? And the credible goal of each of them?

“Inter have a complete squad and are a proven group: continuity of results will be important in order to take advantage of the large squad. Milan have to find a balance: their path, for better or worse, will depend on when they find it. Juve have made an important market. If the new ones manage to fit in quickly and confirm expectations, they will be able to take great satisfaction, even if it may take time.

“Atalanta has the advantage of having a very prepared coach. I would not have been surprised by a call from some English team after the Europa League victory. Atalanta might struggle if they do not show tactical flexibility. Bologna, on the other hand, has nothing to lose.”

He has played and won the Champions League with great scorers like Shevchenko and Inzaghi. Does Lautaro lack the European consecration to be at the level of the greatest?

“Lautaro is one of the strongest strikers. He has given continuity to his performances and continues to improve. But victories always come with the team. Even the greatest strikers alone have not brought the Champions League home.”

Has the year of truth arrived for Leao?

“Leao is the master of his fate. He has talent, he has to exploit it well to become one of the best.”

Do you like Ibra in that role at AC Milan?

“I like to see intelligent ex-players, with skills, in positions to be able to support the clubs, especially where the skills are unbalanced towards the management of the company.”

Clarence, how much does luck count in the Champions League? And do great champions also know how to attract lucky episodes?

“We are makers of our own luck. Multiplying how much one believes by how much effort and work one puts in, you get luck. Luck is a skill. You have to look for luck because in a competition where everyone is equipped to win, nobody gives anything away.”