Gianluca, we have started the season with the right spirit.

"Physically, we are doing very well, but be careful not to overestimate the certainty of passing this round. 2-0 at Dall’Ara was a good result, but it could turn out not to be enough. If we concentrate on our game, we could risk making fools out of ourselves."

How is the team’s condition?

"We’ve had a good retreat, and I think I can say that we’re doing pretty well. Unfortunately, we’ve already had some troubling injuries."

There are some pretty high-level teams in the Intertoto Cup.

"It’s clear that if we go on, we could face teams with a lot of tradition at their back. I’m thinking of Kaiserslautern, Sochaux, and Fulham. But we can do it. I believe that this team could qualify for the UEFA Cup."

There is a risk that the start of the championship could be postponed until October.

"Naturally, we hope that games will start in September. I hope they can work out a deal that satisfies also the teams that still don’t have an agreement with Stream or Tele+. Messing with the calendars could lead to serious problems."

Is Rivaldo going to Milan?

"We’re talking about a great player here. He has just won the World Cup, showing once again the incredible class that he has."

Who will be the surprise of the next championship?

"Modena. I think it could repeat Chievo’s season. I have a feeling that they have done well on the market, adding good players to a group that was already well put together."

Is the situation in soccer dramatic?

"They have realized that it was not possible to go on like before. Only the great players will continue drawing large salaries, which is right anyway. In the meantime, I believe there will be big cuts in salaries for mediocre players."

What’s your impartial opinion of the situation between Vieri and Trappatoni?

"It could be that Trap has made an error, but you must remember that this coach has always played two forwards supported by an attacking midfielder. It’s not good to see a player criticizing his coach. Even if, in Vieri’s case, I don’t think he was looking for a fight."