AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli discussed a number of different topics during an interview on social media, including the models he is trying to emulate and the current status of Zlatan Ibrahimovic.
There are a lot of rumours regarding Milan’s head coach position for next season with plenty of different reports suggesting Ralf Rangnick is the favourite to take over, but the general consensus is that Pioli has done good work since his divisive appointment back in October.
Pioli spoke on Instagram live with the Gi Group Italia channel, beginning by discussing how he is adapting his methods during the current COVID-19 crisis.
“With all the time we have available, I am seeing many games. By reviewing them I am increasingly realising that football has really changed a lot,” he said (via MilanLive).
“The methodology of work and preparation for the game has changed, which is certainly more accurate also thanks to the technologies. The strategies are much more in-depth and the teams are more prepared. Game speed has increased. I started to work almost always dry, but now we work a lot with the ball with my staff.”
There are doubts regarding the future of Ibrahimovic at Milan with his contract set to expire on June 30. He is currently still in Sweden training with Hammarby and awaiting word regarding an official return to Milanello.
“Ibra? I spoke to him, he’s fine. He tells me that the only goal is to improve his performance and everything is aimed at that,” Pioli said.
On getting to know the players, he added: “I ask many questions to the players, I try to understand their personality, through their answers.
“I want to try to understand how to stimulate and motivate them. Knowing their mood you understand if it should be calmed or stimulated. Even a simple joke may be enough.”
On choosing a captain: “I have often arrived in already closed situations. If I had the opportunity to intervene I would focus on those who are generous, commit themselves and give everything but a leader must be selfless.”
Pioli concluded by highlighting the models of three European giants that he is inspired by, before discussing his future and his own personal aims.
“I look at Liverpool, Bayern and Manchester City, I am updating myself by looking at these teams,” the ex-Lazio boss said.
“When I see a team that believes in what it does it excites me, I have won almost nothing. A coach who is a winner is the one who achieves the goal set at the beginning of the season.
“I am a lucky man, I love what I do, I hope to return to normal.”
