Stade Rennes defender Arthur Theate has stated that his team are coming to Milan to win in the first leg of the Europa League tie against AC Milan.
The former Bologna defender was interviewed by La Gazzetta dello Sport (via Radio Rossonera) ahead of the clash at San Siro and he made it clear that the French side have every intention of travelling home with a win under their belts.
This is the first leg of the Europa League knockout round playoff tie, with the two teams fighting for a place in the round of 16.
The first leg is on Thursday evening and Theate has said of the game: “We go to Milan with the aim of giving our best, to win. We don’t hide.”
When asked about the players he will have to work hardest against, the centre-back naturally picked out Olivier Giroud, a player he has faced before when playing for Bologna.
“Giroud is very strong with his head, as a number nine in the box he remains one of the best in the world. Due to his characteristics, Leao is among the top three in the world,” Theate said.
This tie is a good example of why a European draw should never be focused on too much when initially made. Rennes were almost in the Ligue 1 relegation zone when the draw was made, but now they are seventh in Ligue 1 and they are unbeaten in eight including cup games.
Theate assessed their season so far, saying: “After a complicated start to the season we are getting back on course. We want to continue to improve, even against Milan, although it won’t be easy.”
That’s the same guy that said no problem I can score against Milan, but then lost 4-2 without scoring and hasn’t won against Milan yet…
Yeah keep dreaming tho
I wouldn’t take them for granted, they are in fine form and we’re just dragging through each match hoping to get out with positive result.
This is not Milan from Scudetto season or last season CL.
My man nailed it. The team are very low on liveliness.