Tare: ‘Milan must be united, Champions League qualification fundamental’

Milan director Igli Tare calls on fans to be ‘united’ with the club despite tonight’s protests, insisting ‘Champions League qualification is fundamental’ on a sporting and economic level.

The match with Atalanta kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 UK time (20.45 CEST).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from today’s Serie A games on the Liveblog.

The pressure is piling on the Rossoneri after just seven points from as many matches left even Champions League qualification in doubt.

There are also protests planned this evening, as the fans turn their ire against CEO Giorgio Furlani, setting up a petition with thousands of signatures urging for his dismissal.

“The fans are right to express their thoughts, the important thing is that we are all united in this moment, because it is fundamental we complete the process that we started this season,” Tare told DAZN Italia.

“We must try not to repeat the errors we’ve made in the past, as a performance like the one seen against Sassuolo leaves a bitter taste in the mouth. It has been a rough week, but we are all convinced the team will give a strong response tonight.”

Much has been said about the future of Tare and Max Allegri, so how could getting into the Champions League affect their status at San Siro?

“Champions League qualification is fundamental not for me, but for this club and the fans. We have slowed down in recent weeks, but our fate is still in our hands, and we must give a response tonight.

“It is fundamental for this club to secure Champions League participation, not just economically, but on a purely sporting level.”

Rafael Leao had seemingly been heading for the bench today, but Christian Pulisic pulled out with a gluteal strain this morning in training, so the Portuguese star keeps his spot.

Santiago Gimenez gets his first start since October 28, which was also against Atalanta, after recovering from ankle surgery.

Fikayo Tomori is suspended and Luka Modric out for the season after a facial fracture.

“Modric’s absence is a blow for the team on the field, but he is not absent, because every day he spends at Milanello with the team, trying to cheer them on. I am very confident that Luka will continue his experience at Milan next season,” assured Tare.