Bournemouth winger Marcus Tavernier believes facing AC Milan in the Europa League represents a historic moment for the club as they prepare for another major European fixture.
Chasing History in Debut European Campaign
The Cherries have made a strong start to their maiden European campaign, opening with a 2-1 away victory against Real Sociedad before earning a 3-0 win over Sturm Graz at home. Under head coach Marco Rose, Bournemouth could become the first English team to win their opening three matches in a major European competition since Sunderland in the 1973-74 Cup Winners’ Cup.
Standing in their way are seven-time European champions AC Milan, who hold the second-most Champions League titles in history behind Real Madrid’s 15.
Tavernier Relishes Massive European Test
Tavernier, who scored in Bournemouth’s domestic victory against Sunderland last weekend, expressed enthusiasm at the prospect of taking on one of European football’s giants. The 27-year-old winger noted that competing against clubs with extensive domestic and European pedigree was exactly what the squad desired following the group stage draw.
“If you told us last season that, this season, we would be playing against Milan at home in the Europa League, I think we would have snapped your hand off for it,” Tavernier said.
He added that the fixture marks “an unbelievable moment for Bournemouth in the way we want to proceed, to carry on going to be involved in these types of games and make Bournemouth a bigger club in the world.”
Key Statistics and Head-to-Head History
The match marks the 12th different English side AC Milan have encountered in major European competition. The Rossoneri’s first game against each of their previous six English opponents ended in draws, including their 3-3 draw against Liverpool in the 2005 Champions League final, which Milan lost on penalties.
Additionally, AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim brings a recent record against the Cherries, having failed to defeat Bournemouth in three attempts while managing Manchester United, most recently recording a 4-4 draw in December 2025.
Source: SoccerNews
