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Former champions of Italy, AC Milan's coach Carlo Ancelotti seemed confident during the press conference on the eve of the Champions League final, stating that his players are now a better team than the one that won in the 2003 final against Juventus at Old Trafford after a penalty shootout.
"We are stronger than we were two years ago," said Ancelotti. "Now we have more confidence in our abilities, while in Manchester there were more doubts. Personally, I have no doubts about the final. I know how we will perform, and I know we will perform well."
However, the coach of the "Rossoneri" greatly respects Liverpool and their manager Rafael Benitez: "Against Chelsea and Juventus, they showed all their great qualities. They play organized, defend well, and are dangerous on counterattacks. I think Liverpool is a team with an international touch. They can do everything well. They can defend when needed, but they can also attack when needed. In general, they are a well-assembled and balanced team."
Ancelotti believes that Liverpool fully deserve their place in the final: "Everyone expected Chelsea in the final, but after watching Liverpool's match against Juventus, I realized that beating them would be tough. I think they deserve a win against Chelsea. I hope they will defend and do so successfully, but that's normal, as good results start with defense."
When asked about his favorite Liverpool player, the coach immediately named the team's captain, Steven Gerrard: "Gerrard is one of the best midfielders in the world. He is a highly skilled player, energetic, and a great personality. Nevertheless, no player can decide the outcome of a match."
The Milan coach admitted that this time he hopes to find out the winner without a penalty shootout: "There is little chance that this will happen, and I think it's very difficult to prepare for that. Recreating the pressure a player feels when taking a penalty in the Champions League final is impossible."
Whether there are penalties or not, Ancelotti has one goal - to bring the trophy back to Milan: "Without a doubt, trophies are special. We had it two years ago, and it feels great to see it again and have the opportunity to bring it back to Milan. Two years ago, some even slept with the cup!"
