Ruud Gullit warns Milan owners that it will 'take time' to create their legacy at the club but notes that Florentino Perez has the 'same charisma' as legendary Milan President Silvio Berlusconi.
Gullit played with Carlo Ancelotti in the 'Great Milan', one of the best teams ever. The Italian tactician, now in charge of Real Madrid, will face the Rossoneri on Tuesday in a Champions League match at the Santiago Bernabeu.
"There were many leaders in that Milan team," Gullit told Marca.
"We helped each other. The funny thing is that I don't see the same thing these days. Everyone talks, but they don't correct each other. In my time, they'd yell at you if you didn't do your job correctly because everyone wanted to win.
"Sacchi was so important. He had a remarkable football in his head, making the work more difficult without the ball," continued the former Milan star.
"The target was to recover possession of the ball as quickly as possible. It was vital to have players with this mentality, and his players' selection was excellent. We did tactical work almost every week, especially recovering the ball. It was more about work without the ball.
"Berlusconi was the best president I could have. He came to the training ground every week. He spoke to us, and he was charismatic. I think the current Real Madrid President has the same charisma. Having a central figure who loves the club is crucial because he can pass on his passion to the team."
Gullit said Real Madrid are now in the best moment of their history, having won two Champions League titles in the past three years.
"Milan is different," he noted.
"I know nobody working there, and it's a shame because it's part of my history. I hope that Milan's owners create their legacy, but that takes time. "
Red Bird Capital Partners acquired a majority stake in the Rossoneri in 2022, weeks after their Serie A title victory.
Milan have collected three points in the opening three games of the season, so they'll need a result in Spain on Tuesday.
They have won the most Champions League titles after Real Madrid, and despite Alvaro Morata's recent claims, the Serie A giants are not among the favourites to lift the cup this term.
"It's difficult to choose a favourite for the Champions League," continued Gullit.
"I've always liked Bayern, but Real Madrid are always favourites. Don't forget that."