New AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has vowed to keep Ronaldinho at the club.
Rossoneri chief ready for challenge
New AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has vowed to keep Ronaldinho at the club.
Former Cagliari coach Allegri was confirmed as Leonardo's replacement earlier this week and he is relishing taking charge at the San Siro.
Allegri is aiming to get the best out of the current squad after a disappointing campaign last term and he admits Brazilian star Ronaldinho is central to his plans.
"We need to begin again with enthusiasm and fresh motivation," Allegri told
Gazzetta dello Sport. "I doubt there are players at Milan who just do the bare minimum to get along.
Motivation
"Ronaldinho is a fantastic player and the club will not sell him. Together we will find new motivation that is not represented by his World Cup dream.
"He can play anywhere with that quality, out wide or behind the strikers. As for Pato, I expect him to mature well this year."
Allegri is less sure about the future of Holland striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar after a disappointing debut season for the former Ajax hit-man last term.
"Will Huntelaar stay? He has similar characteristics to Pippo Inzaghi and Marco Borriello, even if he is a good player. We'll see," added Allegri.
Challenge
Allegri admits he is not afraid of the challenge of trying to transform Milan's fortunes.
"I am not afraid. Do you know how many of my colleagues would like to be in my place right now? I like a challenge," noted Allegri.
"This is a squad that has won a great deal, but still has a lot to give. People forget victories very quickly, so the only way to keep them on side is to keep winning."
