Ahead of the game between AC Milan and Udinese, Paulo Fonseca spoke to the media and shared his thoughts on the importance of bouncing back. Indeed, after the defeat last time out, the manager is keen on getting back on the right track.
It has been a season filled with ups and downs so far and in order to compete at the top, Fonseca must stabilise the ship, starting today. Udinese are the opponents at San Siro this evening and given the past results in this fixture, it won’t be easy for Milan.
Fonseca has made five changes compared to the game against Fiorentina, starting Samuel Chukwueze and Noah Okafor in the attacking trident. Meanwhile, Filippo Terracciano is replacing the suspended Theo Hernandez.
Speaking to DAZN ahead of the game, as cited by MilanNews, Fonseca explained the XI and made it clear that it isn’t a way to send a message. He also commented on what an international break does to the momentum.
The starting XI, is it a message for someone?
“No message, but the desire to win the game with the players that I think are the best at this moment to face a team like Udinese. They are just choices for the game.”
On Okafor and Pulisic…
“Pulisic will play in a more central area, he has the characteristics to do this. Noah will play on the left.”
On the international break…
“I always want them [the players] to be with me so they can learn. The break is always difficult for a team like Milan, because we are left with 5-6 players and I would have liked to have the squad available to work. We need everyone today, to help the team.”
On Leao’s exclusion…
“We have many games now. The next one is in the Champions League and I think we need everyone. Today I chose Okafor, let’s see how the next game goes.”