Amorim says: Sono ready to uphold Baresi’s legacy at Milan

Ruben Amorim held a press conference on the eve of tomorrow’s derby, deliberately using the moment to remember Franco Baresi. He offered his condolences to the former captain’s family and friends and declared, "Sono" ready to carry the legend forward while keeping Milan focused on the match.

Amorim began by saying, "Prima di tutto le nostre condoglianze alla famiglia di Baresi, ai suoi amici e anche a tutti i compagni di squadra che ha avuto durante la sua carriera," making clear the depth of the club’s mourning.

He added that he feels like the last person who should speak about Baresi, noting he has been present for only two minutes but can explain the feeling within the staff. "Penso di essere l'ultima persona che dovrebbe parlare di Baresi, perché sono qui da due minuti," he said.

The coach described how the communication team cries when they talk about Baresi, and how his chef, Michele, repeatedly shows him photographs of the former captain. He recounted, "Quando andiamo a cena, Michele, il nostro chef, continua a mostrarmi fotografie di lui e del signor Baresi insieme e a raccontarmi tante storie."

Amorim stressed that nobody calls him "Baresi"; it is always Franco, a name that carries meaning. He recalled a story from Serie B, saying, "Quando siamo andati in Serie B, lui non ci ha lasciati," highlighting the personal impact beyond trophies.

He reflected that Baresi’s true inheritance is character, not the Champions League titles or league crowns. "La cosa fondamentale, alla fine, è il carattere e chi sei, non quello che hai raggiunto," Amorim asserted, promising the squad will honour that legacy.

The manager also expressed satisfaction with the current roster, stating, "Sono davvero contento della squadra che ho." He mentioned that the club has an idea for the market, though sometimes it may not materialise.

Looking ahead to the derby, Amorim confirmed that Rafael Leão will start, adding that all players are working hard. He noted that Modrić and Luka will also feature, emphasizing the need to manage the tight schedule of two close matches.

He spoke about preparation, saying the team must train by playing, and that managing workload is essential. Amorim also praised Italian coaches, remarking, "Ce ne sono tanti bravi e sono un ammiratore di tutti loro e di Gasperini in particolare," and insisted Serie A is not limited to catenaccio.

The article concludes by noting that the club’s privacy notice references the EU regulation 679/2016, underscoring compliance with the UE framework. "Regolamento UE 679/2016" is cited in the documentation accompanying the press release.