Sergio Conceicao has insisted that he is always happy when his AC Milan side win, even if he doesn’t always show it.
Milan looked to be heading for a defeat against Genoa at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris, but came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory. It is their fourth win in fifth games across all competitions, and the first three-game winning run under Conceicao.
Genoa got themselves in front in the second half through substitute striker Vitinha as he volleyed home, then Milan scored twice in as many minutes. Rafael Leao equalised from Santiago Gimenez’s assist, and the second was an own-goal from a dangerous Leao cross.
The result doesn’t quite rekindle hopes of a late charge towards the European spots, but it was another comeback win that should build more belief in view of the Coppa Italia final next week.
Conceicao spoke to the reporters who gathered in the press conference room after the game at the Marassi to offer more thoughts on the match, following his interview with DAZN. His quotes are via MilanNews.
With this new formation you have won four out of five games, and it was your eighth comeback since arriving…
“We always try to improve. We work on an individual and sectoral level. We work a lot. We started the game with a usual formation but we finished the game in a different way. And nobody talks about this.
“The players gave a good response and this means that we have a group that believes in what we do at Milanello. I am happy about this. Maybe I don’t show it, but inside I am happy with the response of these guys who believe in what we do.”
What did you think of Leao’s impact?
“I already knew him. Now I know him very well and he knows me well. He knows what I want and he is focused on finishing the season well. I see a very important attitude. That is the basis because then he has the quality.
“I’m sorry that he won’t be there on Friday [due to suspension] but there will be another because the response that the boys give me is important.”
Is there anything to improve?
“In the game plan in the first half we could have done better in possession. We played against a difficult team to face on a difficult pitch. The opponent has the quality. However, we could have looked to get in behind more. On the goal we conceded, collectively, we could have done more.”
Were you pleased with Santiago Gimenez’s contribution?
“He too, in the most difficult moments, is one of the first to arrive at Milanello. He has the quality. It’s a question of time. Adapting in Italy is not easy for anyone.”
So most likely if Conceicao stays, we will have another season of Musah and RLC.
RLC is currently the deputy to Pulisic. Puli played as Leao sub and the 2 behind the striker, create more of a box midfield rather than them being classical wingers.
If he wins coppa we will sign a CAM that can also play winger or winger that can go comfortably in the center. additionally a CDM, CBs (Thiaw will leave and if we keep 3-4-2-1, we will need 2 more)
Musah stays because he is american, the world cup is coming up…so for marketing reasons he’ll be here with Pulisic at least until after the world cup