Paolo Maldini knows who is to blame for the disaster unfolding at AC Milan right now.
Just as he played, he is directing to. Fearlessly and bold, not hiding away from anything.
The only problem, is as a player he was winning, as a director, his record is a little less joyful to read.
AC Milan was humiliated at home in the San Siro this weekend, by Fiorentina. Losing 3-1.
The pressure is mounting on newly appointed Rossoneri manager Marco Giampaolo.
But Maldini facing the problem head-on and for the time being is backing his manager.
In an interview with Sky Sports Italia, he discussed the current situation at his beloved club.
Giampaolo still has his support and will be given adequate time.
He said:
“We chose the Coach, we will defend him, it is right to give him some time.”
He is concerned though.
Maldini continued:
“We knew there were some problems that we’d run into, although obviously we didn’t expect to lose four of the first six games.”
“The quality of football is unsatisfactory.”
He is supportive of his coach’s attitude though but is concerned about mounting pressure on the players too.
He added:
“Right now, it might look like a tunnel with no light, but as our Coach said, the way out is with hard work.”
“We knew that relying on a young squad, during the period when we are waiting for the Coach to really become a leadership figure.”
“There could be a risk of the pressure getting to them.”
There is no hiding who is to blame. Maldini is not letting anyone off the hook, even himself.
He said:
“Of course, it is the fault of the players, the club, the Coach, everyone.”
While he understands the anguish and unhappiness of the fans.
He believes the situation can turn around very quickly and great things can come from this difficult time.
He concluded:
“Last season, we finished one point off the Champions League places and they always supported us.”
“I think the fans were right this evening to protest. The responsibility is to be shared around, otherwise, it becomes too much of a burden to bear.”
“We are only six rounds in, all is not lost. We know that in football, situations can turn rapidly.”
