Newcastle United face AC Milan this evening in what is a huge match for both clubs.
For the Magpies, the chance to play in the Champions League, and start their campaign at an iconic stadium like the San Siro, is understandably very exciting.
Whilst for the Rossoneri, it gives them an opportunity to quickly forget their 5-1 loss against local rivals Inter Milan and to start well in what many have dubbed the group of death.
There’s some excitement in the Italian media about welcoming Newcastle, and there’s been endless looks at the club’s current situation and their history.
Naturally, Alan Shearer has been reached out to for comment on the match and various other things, such as Sandro Tonali’s transfer and impact, and it’s Gazzetta dello Sport who have managed to have a chat with the Newcastle legend.
When asked to assess the club’s prospects in the Champions League, Shearer said: “The objective will be to qualify for the round of 16. Obviously it won’t be easy, but playing at Newcastle will be difficult for anyone, both due to the value of the team and the passion of the fans at St. James’ Park. I’m sure the team will be put to the test, but I think they have enough to get through the group.
“The growth has been much faster than expected, especially considering that 18 months ago the team was fighting not to be relegated. From that starting point, playing in the Champions League is a huge step forward in a very short period of time. However, with the results also come the expectations, because no one wants to play in the Champions League and flop. The idea, if you play it, is to get noticed.”
Gazzetta dello Sport obviously wanted to find out Shearer’s opinion on Sandro Tonali, and whilst he accepted the midfielder has perhaps been a little up and down since his arrival, as would be expected, he predicted a bright future for the Italian with the Magpies.
“His first game with Newcastle was fantastic: man of the match, goal, perfect in the middle of the pitch. I think that debut helped the fans understand who he is as a player, to understand him. And to make him feel welcome, which I’m sure will help him a lot. He probably didn’t play as well in the subsequent games, but it happens. I am convinced that Newcastle’s midfield will do very well with him.”
Shearer went on to dismiss Newcastle’s chances of winning the Premier League this season or next, sharing calmer expectations: “I think the most realistic thing for Newcastle is to aim to win one of the national cups and continue the path started last season. If that happened, I think everyone would be satisfied.”