Amorim sets sights on Serie A dominance and second star as Milan unveil new coach
Ruben Amorim laid out an ambitious vision in his first press conference as AC Milan head coach, targeting Serie A dominance and a 20th league title while confirming the club wants to retain Luka Modric.
Amorim's title ambition
The Portuguese coach, formerly of Manchester United and Sporting Lisbon, said the fundamental objective is to dominate the league. "We want to win the second star, I know it will be tough, there are a thousand variables. The fundamental objective now is to dominate the championship, then we'll see about the rest," he told reporters. He acknowledged the difficulty of Serie A but stressed the club is there to win, not to avoid losing. Amorim also addressed comparisons with José Mourinho, saying he has great respect and maybe can call him a friend, but he is his own man. "I learned a lot from him, but I am a different person. Don't expect a Mourinho from me."
Modric set to stay
Amorim confirmed that veteran midfielder Luka Modric, the 2018 Ballon d'Or winner, is a player the club wants to keep.
Modric is described as a reference point for the team.I've spoken to him twice, I can do it again. We want to count on Modric for next season. I hope to have him back in a few days, I'll just give him a few days of rest after the World Cup.
New faces and squad outlook
Amorim praised new signing Goncalo Ramos, highlighting his goal against Croatia with three defenders on him as evidence of the striker's quality.
On Rafael Leao, who has been linked with a move away, Amorim said the winger played very well at the World Cup and he is happy with the whole squad. Christian Pulisic, injured during the tournament, was called a player of great talent whose condition needs assessment.Look at Goncalo play, just watch him for five minutes. For me he is a message: it means we believe in the group and the team.
Cardinale's vision
Owner Gerry Cardinale, speaking alongside Amorim, said the goal is to return Milan to its glorious past with exciting, attacking football.
He noted many changes since the end of the season and promised more to come, with a month of intense meetings to rebuild the project.We play to win, not to avoid losing. This must be our style. Exciting football, beautiful to watch, always on the attack. Stop with the past.
