Europe returns and with it one of the traditional events that accompany international matches: the UEFA lunch among the executives of the clubs involved. On the occasion of Milan-Benfica, the delegations of the two clubs met in the centre of Milan for an institutional and discussion moment.

The meeting took on a particular significance due to the presence of Manuel Rui Costa, former Milan midfielder and now president of Benfica. The Portuguese has had a long experience with the Lisbon club, becoming one of the symbolic figures of the red-and-black society.

Milan, Scaroni present at UEFA lunch with Calvelli and Oettle

Representing Milan were President Paolo Scaroni, CEO Massimo Calvelli and Chief Revenue Officer Maikel Oettle. The red-and-black delegation welcomed the Benfica representatives ahead of the European clash scheduled at San Siro.

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During the meeting, Scaroni gave a brief statement to the journalists present, summarising the club's ambitions: "We always want to win".

A phrase that captures the spirit with which Milan approaches its return to the European stage, after failing to qualify for the Champions League last season. The team of Ruben Amorim therefore aims to start the Europa League campaign in the best possible way.

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Milan-Benfica, a European appointment of great charm

The clash against Benfica represents a prestigious encounter between two clubs with a great international tradition. On one side Milan, called to regain continuity in European competitions, on the other the Portuguese club led by Marco Silva, which arrived in Milan with important ambitions.

The UEFA lunch therefore previewed the atmosphere of the match, combining the institutional and sporting components of an event that pits two historic European football realities against each other.