AC Milan hoping emulate Barcelona’s youth philosophy

AC Milan plan to emulate the success of Barcelona when it comes to successfully bringing up youth prospects, says Barbara Berlusconi.

Speaking to the Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo ahead of the Champions League Round of 16 clash between Milan and Barcelona, board of directors member Barbara Berlusconi reiterated her club’s intent to cultivate youth players for Milan’s first team.

Berlusconi was adamant in her desire, saying: “We are Milan, historically a club who has nurtured great players according to our own values.

“We must recover this, as Barcelona have done with La Masia.  We do not want to buy Lionel Messi, we want to make our own Lionel Messi in house.”

Some have considered her comments to be related to policies reflected in the recent purchase of Mario Balotelli.