Legendary former AC Milan coach Arrigo Sacchi feels that with the Serie A season now starting, defending champions the Rossoneri are the favourites but that Inter and Juventus are well-placed to catch them.

Speaking to Milan-based newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport in an interview published in today’s print edition, Sacchi named his former clubs as the front-runners because they have proven themselves but suggested reasons why the Nerazzurri and the Bianconeri could also win.

The title race will begin to take shape in the coming weeks, even if it will likely not be until the very final matches of the season that there can be any certainty.

The Rossoneri will begin the season with the pressure to confirm their crown from last season, as Inter had done last season, whilst a number of teams will be heading into the campaign with very high expectations based on the players they’ve brought in during the transfer window.

Sacchi stated that “Milan are the favourites because they won the title last season and because they’re playing well. If they continue on this path, and if they improve in their high-pressing style, Pioli’s men can have another great season.”

“The important thing is that they avoid the kind of success syndrome that’s always lurking,” he continued. “They must be down to earth and show maximum commitment.”

“They must also pay attention to Juventus and Inter,” Sacchi went on. “Juve, at least in Italy, are always very dangerous and have strengthened with Di Maria, Bremer, Kostic and Pogba.”

“And Inter, perhaps a little held back by their difficult financial situation have a great deal of experience and talented players,” he noted. “Lastly, I also think that Roma will be in the running to unseat Milan.”