"He won convincingly, but usually also economically" - Jose De Cauwer debates Milano-Sanremo favourites, hints at Pogacar

With Milano-Sanremo now less than a week away, both experts and supporters alike are discussing and debating who will be crowned the winner. Speaking to Sporza, Jose de Cauwer reveals his thoughts.

"It was not the case that he won every time with a marathon breakaway. He won convincingly, but usually also economically," De Cauwer says of many's pre-race favourite, Tadej Pogacar. "If I were his team, I would try to throw the sprinters overboard on the Cipressa in Milan-Sanremo. But it will not only be Pogacar who will have a good start."

Aside from the all conquering Slovenian both Wout van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel are also sure to be in with a shout. "For me, Wout van Aert dispelled all doubts after his illness in the Tirreno. He was very good, especially in that penultimate ride over 'the walls,'" De Cauwer explains. "I think we haven't seen everything from Mathieu van der Poel yet. But an extra week can do a lot. I would definitely put him in the candidate set winners."

Both Jasper Philipsen and Julian Alaphilippe are also given special mention by De Cauwer. "The same applies to Julian Alaphilippe as to Van der Poel: a lot can still be added in one week. It is still early in the season and we are now going to a different period. The preparation is over," he says. "Philipsen can be there. He is sharper than ever and if he is good, he can last a long time uphill."