Carlo Ancelotti has confidence Milan will retain fourth place despite a trip to Napoli without the suspended Andrea Pirlo and quashes Didier Drogba rumours.
Last week they took advantage of Fiorentina slip-up to defeat Inter and leapfrog into the final Champions League spot, but they have two rounds left now to keep hold of it.
“We have worked very well this week, with less apprehension and more certainty. Tomorrow we’ll have to be very careful,” commented the Coach.
It will be a tough test for the Rossoneri, as Napoli play their last home game of the campaign.
“The team and fans will be eager to celebrate such a strong season. Napoli have always hurt the big clubs, defeating Inter and Juventus here, so they are a competitive and new squad. Tactically they are very open and attacking with great individual talents.”
The San Paolo also brings back happy memories for Ancelotti, who was a midfielder when they beat Napoli 3-2 to win the first Scudetto of the Silvio Berlusconi era on May 1, 1988.
“Returning to Naples does evoke some wonderful moments, but that is another story entirely. We are ready for an incredibly important game and it’ll be a spectacle within a spectacle.
“We hope to continue our walk towards the Champions League. We have a point advantage and aim to maintain it, so winning tomorrow would mean a great deal for our position.”
Pirlo sits out a ban and Yoann Gourcuff is injured, so Cristian Brocchi plays in midfield, although a new name on the teamsheet is Ibrahim Ba.
“Why did I call Ba? I like him!” was Ancelotti’s response when asked about the veteran who has barely set foot on the field for several years.
Ancelotti was asked about the future and various reports linking Milan to a series of players.
“I respect Amauri and have said so many times, but it will be difficult to see him arrive at Milan? Does Didier Drogba have a deal with Milan? It’s all rubbish.
“Ronaldinho? I have no news on that front. As with Amauri, he is well-respected, but it’ll be difficult to sign him.”
Milan squad: Fiori, Kalac, Offredi, Bonera, Digao, Favalli, Jankulovski, Kaladze, Nesta, Oddo, Serginho, Simic, Ambrosini, Ba, Brocchi, Gattuso, Kakà, Seedorf, Gilardino, Inzaghi, Pato.
