Italy

Adriano Galliani Lavishes Praise On Milan Boss Leonardo

The Rossoneri chief executive says ‘Leo’ is beginning to stamp his own authority on the team and emerge from Carlo Ancelotti’s giant shadow...

Nov 9, 2009 8:59:45 AM

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Milan defeated Lazio 2-1 at the Stadio Olimpico yesterday to move to within seven points of Serie A leaders Inter.

And chief executive Adriano Galliani is happy to see that coach Leonardo is growing into his new role, after an inconsistent start to the campaign, and is quickly replacing former boss Carlo Ancelotti in the hearts of the Diavoli fans.

“This is no more Ancelotti ‘s Milan, it is Leonardo’s Milan now,” he told Sky Sport Italia.

“In fact, we are now employing a 4-2-4 system which President [Silvio] Berlusconi loves very much.

“This system is the trademark of our coach. ‘Leo’ was always telling me about this ‘myth’ of the Brazilian national team who took part at the 1982 World Cup.

“We have finally managed to use it by playing with four strikers. This took time, but it has now changed our skin.”

But can a revitalised Milan side challenge cross-city rivals Inter for the title?

“Our objective is to finish among the top three,” said Galliani.

“But I’ve never said that a third-place finish is enough. First or second place are also feasible targets…”

Vince Masiello, Goal.com