Alberto Zaccheroni is delighted to see Arsenal goalkeeper Jens Lehmann fulfilling his potential after branding him immature at 30!
Lehmann, now 36, demanded a move back to Germany when Zac dropped him after just five games at AC Milan in 1998.
Zaccheroni, 53, revealed: "Lehmann was nearly 30 but he still didn't have the maturity of a man.
"He didn't have any patience, either and he just couldn't cope with the stress you get in the high-pressure world of Serie A.
"He asked to leave as soon as he lost his place in my starting line-up and wouldn't change his mind. He went off to Borussia Dortmund.
"He just wasn't mature. And he was making too many mistakes.
"It has taken until now for him to grow up.
"But now is his time. He is in great form and he can help Arsenal win the Champions League.
"Their manager Arsene Wenger just needs to be brave and attack Barcelona down the flanks, where they are weak.
"AC Milan didn't have the right players to do that when they played the Catalans in the semi-final - but Arsenal do.
"So I predict Lehmann will be a European champion by the end of what is sure to be an incredible night.
"Better late than never and I'll be delighted for him."
Lehmann, now 36, demanded a move back to Germany when Zac dropped him after just five games at AC Milan in 1998.
Zaccheroni, 53, revealed: "Lehmann was nearly 30 but he still didn't have the maturity of a man.
"He didn't have any patience, either and he just couldn't cope with the stress you get in the high-pressure world of Serie A.
"He asked to leave as soon as he lost his place in my starting line-up and wouldn't change his mind. He went off to Borussia Dortmund.
"He just wasn't mature. And he was making too many mistakes.
"It has taken until now for him to grow up.
"But now is his time. He is in great form and he can help Arsenal win the Champions League.
"Their manager Arsene Wenger just needs to be brave and attack Barcelona down the flanks, where they are weak.
"AC Milan didn't have the right players to do that when they played the Catalans in the semi-final - but Arsenal do.
"So I predict Lehmann will be a European champion by the end of what is sure to be an incredible night.
"Better late than never and I'll be delighted for him."
