Fluminense`s captain and former AC Milan defender Thiago Silva has disclosed that he reached out to Juventus manager Massimiliano Allegri prior to their match against Inter Milan. Silva sought tactical advice to gain an edge in their Club World Cup encounter.
Following Fluminense`s 2-0 victory over Inter in the Club World Cup Round of 16, Silva spoke to SportMediaset, revealing his pre-match preparation:
“As a football enthusiast, I contacted my friend Allegri this week to gather some information about Inter. He spoke highly of their team and showed great respect for them, as do I. I was able to share some of this insight with my teammates, and I believe Allegri`s advice proved valuable.”
Silva emphasized that their conversation didn`t revolve around AC Milan, but he expressed interest in visiting Allegri, Ibrahimovic, and the Milan squad in January.
The Brazilian center-back expressed satisfaction with his team`s performance, acknowledging the challenge of facing Inter:
“I`m pleased with how our team played. It`s not easy to compete against Inter in this manner. We were aware of the tough challenge ahead.”
Silva also highlighted the importance of rest following their victory, noting the quick turnaround before their next match in just a few days.
The defeat has left Inter with additional challenges to address, particularly after their captain Lautaro Martinez publicly criticized teammate Hakan Calhanoglu, suggesting he should depart if he`s no longer committed to the club`s objectives.
Thiago Silva`s connection to Italian football dates back to his three-year stint at AC Milan from 2009 to 2012, during which he clinched a Serie A title and a Supercoppa Italiana. Under Allegri`s management, Silva made 79 appearances and scored four goals before his €42 million transfer to Paris Saint-Germain in 2012.