Milan lament ‘difficult’ group Thursday 25 August, 2005
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Milan have reacted to today’s Champions League draw with caution, insisting qualification will be no easy task.
The Rossoneri have been placed in Group E along with PSV Eindhoven of Holland, Germany’s Schalke and Turkish outfit Fenerbache.
"It’s not the best for us," said boss Carlo Ancelotti. "Our opponents are three pretty well balanced teams and that could cause us problems."
Ironically, Milan will travel to Eindhoven and Istanbul again, following last term’s semi-final against PSV and their Turkish nightmare in the Final against Liverpool.
"It will be curious to return to those two cities," added Ancelotti. "But this will give us the possibility to make up for what happened in May."
Club captain Paolo Maldini, who actually helped in the draw, is also ‘disappointed’ with this afternoon’s events.
"It is a tough group but if you want to win this competition then you can’t fear anybody," he stated.
"The Istanbul wound is still open but we have a great desire to get back on the right track."
Kaka, who was today voted as last season’s best midfield player in the Champions League, mirrored the views of his boss and colleague.
"It will be hard as we are up against sides who play different types of football," said the Brazilian.
"We are returning to Istanbul but there will be a different kind of atmosphere surrounding the game."
source: channel4.com