The emperor, to the Rossoneri in 2001 and a veteran of European competitions: “The Belgian is flexible and left-handed, you need patience, he must be made to feel special. The Rossoneri in London are starting one edge ahead”
The emperor listens, reflects, pronounces: “I would train De Ketelaere and Theo. I have a soft spot for full-backs who break the line. Especially if they’re left-handed.” Fatih Terim replies from Istanbul, his home, and immediately takes a picture of tonight’s Milan-Tottenham. Up for grabs are the quarterfinals. He only played them once in 2012, two of the 96 European benches: “Milan started a step ahead due to the 1-0 draw in the first leg. I hope the Champions League comes back to you, perhaps in Milan. I’m in love with Italy. I can’t wait to host my Italian friends at the Ataturk”. Venue of the next final. Where Pioli, Inzaghi and Spalletti hope to bring the blue.