Before AC Milan’s clash against Slavia Praha in the Europa League round of 16, midfielder Yacine Adli spoke about the difficulties of the Europa League and his dreams of European glory.
Yacine Adli has undergone an impressive return to his best this season, and it has seemingly come from nowhere. The Frenchman has been appreciated for some time at Milan, but his chances to impress had been limited.
Now, he seems to be an indispensable member of Stefano Pioli’s midfield, with him transforming further as the season continues. Adli originally signed as a more attacking-minded player. However, in a deeper role, he has excelled and proved that he can reach the heights that were hoped he would for the Rossoneri.
His story is one of resilience, considering his opportunities have been limited. Nevertheless, the midfielder has continued to work hard, waiting for his chance to impress, and he has done just that, offering Pioli a new weapon in his arsenal.
When Tommaso Pobega was sidelined, it highlighted a potential gap in the midfield, but the 58-year-old’s experiment has paid off and possibly saved the club millions in the process.
Adli spoke to Sky Sports this evening about the upcoming fixture and his role in the squad – his words have been relayed by MilanNews.
Pioli called you an example for your teammates because of your improvement. How did you manage to endure a season like last season?
“I never gave up, I always tried to give my best in training, the more you train well the more the team can grow. Even when I wasn’t playing I put all my attention into giving something to this group.”
How has your life changed with the fans now that you are a starter?
“I leave the house very little, but I have always had a good relationship with them. Even last year I had their support, it’s always a pleasure to meet them on the street. They give me a lot of love, I hope to repay them on the field.”
Pioli said that the Europa League is a cup to try to win. How difficult will it be against Slavia?
‘We have studied them well. They are a mature and strong team, they have a direct game. There will be a great physical challenge, they will put a lot of intensity. We’ll try to play a good game at the San Siro to put them under pressure before the return leg there, theirs is a nice stadium too.”
Do you dream of the European Championship with France?
“I think I’m playing a bit more now. But I don’t want to have too high expectations. Of course, it’s a goal, I think I have improved a lot compared to last year and slowly I will try to conquer everything there is.”
