Milan: Ruben Amorim Surprises Everyone on the Eve of the European Match

Milan’s Europa League debut against Benfica won’t be just any game. Ahead of the match at San Siro, Rossoneri coach Ruben Amorim took a stance that came as a surprise to those expecting more cautious remarks at the press conference: “I want to take Milan all the way, at least to the final,” he said, in no uncertain terms. The goal has taken the Rossoneri by surprise and ignited excitement within the club: the Diavolo, in fact, has never won this competition, neither in its current form nor in its former incarnation as the UEFA Cup.

“Milan vs. Benfica is a crucial opportunity,” added Amorim, “against a club I’m very attached to because of my past as a player and my relationship with Rui Costa, who is now Benfica’s president and who, during his time at Milan as a player, made a significant impact.” The Portuguese coach also reflected on his experience in the Europa League, a tournament in which he reached the final of the 2024–2025 edition, losing only in the final match against Tottenham: “Every competition must be played with the goal of winning it,” he said.

The reporters present were also intrigued by the behind-the-scenes story regarding the possibility of Amorim taking the helm of the Lisbon Eagles. “The opportunity was there,” he admitted, “but I had already decided not to return to coaching in Portugal. The call from Milan, then, was one you just can’t turn down: it’s a project I embraced with enthusiasm.”

Amorim also spoke about individual players, especially in light of last Saturday’s comeback draw against Lazio: “Modric substituted at halftime? We’re talking about an absolute champion; his value is beyond question. In soccer, opinions change quickly: look at Diego Moreira—he was criticized after the Juventus game, but now he’s a hero. Hutchinson? The kid is in good form; he might get some playing time.”