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

Tare calls for Milan unity

VERONA, ITALY – APRIL 19: Igli Tare, Sporting Director of AC Milan looks on prior to the Serie A match between Hellas Verona FC and AC Milan at Stadio Marcantonio Bentegodi on April 19, 2026 in Verona, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

“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.”

MILAN, ITALY – APRIL 26: Alexis Saelemaekers of AC Milan looks on during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus FC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on April 26, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

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.