AC Milan are facing a crucial stretch of the season in the next few weeks as they aim to keep fighting on multiple different fronts.
La Gazzetta dello Sport write that there was also a lot of discussion about the game management in the draw against Roma on Sunday, in particular the substitutions and the switch to a three-man defence. It shows that Stefano Pioli – who in his three years with Milan has solved a myriad of problems – is held to high standards after the Scudetto win.
The next month will be one of those crucial mini-cycles in the scheme of the season, starting with tomorrow’s game against Torino in the Coppa Italia. Is is a trophy that Pioli has never won, having reached the final once with Lazio and having got to the semis last year.
The Supercoppa derby comes later this month, and at stake is not just the supremacy of the city (which in any case will be re-discussed in the league on 5 February), but also a trophy. It will be another opportunity for Pioli to prove he can win, and it is a game that will no doubt have a knock on in other competitions given the momentum the winner will get.
The comes Valentine’s Day with what the Rossoneri fans hope is a gift of love from the team, as Milan will play the first leg of their Champions League last 16 tie against Tottenham. It is a complicated tie against a good side, and hostilities with Antonio Conte will be renewed, yet there is a feeling Milan can get through.
