GdS: Five decisive days of Pioli in charge – when Milan’s decision could filter

AC Milan suffered a disappointing defeat against Roma and given the major struggles in front of the home fans, Stefano Pioli has found himself in the spotlight again. Not in a good way, as the negatives are racking up for the Rossoneri’s evaluation. 

Today’s edition of Gazzetta dello Sport (see photo below) has taken stock of Piolki’s future and the factors that will be decisive between now and the end of the season. Needless to say, the Roma defeat was yet another negative for his record.

An unexpected defeat

Not only did the fans leave San Siro with great disappointment on Thursday evening, but also the owner Gerry Cardinale. He lost the ‘derby’ against his compatriot Dan Friedkin, who owns Roma, and the performance was simply not a joy to watch.

The reverse fixture will be decisive to bring the smile back for Cardinale, as well as the derby on April 22nd. Milan have more or less secured a second-place finish, so there is not much to play for, but they want to spoil the Scudetto celebrations for Inter.

After the Derby della Madonnina, Milan also have the game against Juventus at Allianz Stadium. It could be a very tough ending to the month, results-wise that is, but it could also be a very positive ending depending on the outcomes.

Pioli decision on the cards

Milan now find themselves at a crossroads as a decision will have to be made on Pioli. Either they decide to continue with the manager, opting for stability, or they opt to take a different path with the project. The support for Pioli has never been lacking so far, but the season finale will be key.

The decision will be made at the end of the season, there is no doubt about that, but it could be obvious already at the end of this month. Poor results in the reverse fixture against Roma, the derby against Inter and the away trip to Turin could turn the decision into an easy one.

The Rossoneri have made it clear that they are happy with Pioli’s tenure at the club, but it’s equally true that the club and owners, gathered in the stands on Thursday, didn’t expect a home defeat. The response will say a lot, in short.