Mike Maignan put in a tour de force performance to keep Antonio Conte’s Tottenham at bay in London, most significantly pulling off a remarkable last-minute save to deny Harry Kane’s header. The shotstopper only recently returned to the starting XI but has immediately made an impact – pushing the Rossoneri towards the UEFA Champions League quarter-finals for the first time in 11 years.
Milan icon Alessandro Nesta heaped praise on Maignan for his fantastic display in the second leg.
“He’s a special goalkeeper, he’s not like the others. He has been out for many months and is ready. In such a fast game, he is reactive. This is the mark of a champion, at the last minute he saves and solves the game for you.” (via MilanNews)
Maignan himself was full of joy after his team’s defensive masterclass that saw them qualify for the last eight for the first time in over a decade.
“I’m happy, an evening that we have prepared very well and with a lot of concentration. I’m happy because I’m back playing and for the Milan fans. The Champions League is a goal we have every year and it’s been a long time since we’ve played at this level.”
The French keeper also spoke of his long injury layoff.
“I suffered a lot, I wanted to go back to playing but I had this calf problem that kept me out. I want to thank everyone who gave me the strength to get back up: it’s something I’ve learned in recent months.” (via MilanNews)
Milan resume their league season against Salernitana before visiting Udinese. Napoli await them after, but the Rossoneri will take inspiration with the return of Maignan to the starting lineup.
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