Monza boss Palladino says Milan are 'the most complete team in Italy'

Monza head coach Raffaele Palladino branded AC Milan as being the most complete side in Italy as he reacted to his side’s defeat at San Siro.

Milan got themselves a two-goal lead before the break thanks to a Brahim Diaz masterclass, with the Spaniard breaking the deadlock after a run from the halfway line and then scoring with a wonderful turn and shot to make it 2-0.

It was 3-0 when Divock Origi scored his first Milan goal with a rocket of a strike into the top corner from the edge of the box. There were some tense moments when Filippo Ranocchia pulled one back with a free-kick from long range, but Rafael Leao killed the contest with a fourth goal off the bench.

After the defeat against Milan, Palladino spoke at his pre-match press conference at Milanello with his comments relayed by MilanNews and translated below.

What kind of a game was it?

“I asked for a match of courage, strength and determination. We could not think only of defending, otherwise Milan sooner or later will score against you. I was sorry to concede the very avoidable first goal, on a wrong reading of the defence.

“There is regret, but it is an episode and we will work on it. I had the feeling at 3-1 that we could reopen the game, then we conceded the fourth. This game will make us grow a lot, I am satisfied with the performance: these are games where you pay for a half error.”

Have you talked to Pioli?

“I talked to Pioli and he complimented us; I returned them to him, he trains a very strong team with very strong players who play very well. Coming here to San Siro and playing was not easy. We were always in the game.”

Is there any regret about the choices made?

“No, when you choose a line-up you think and feel it. In hindsight, whoever played the second half had an extra gear and stimulated the team. The episodes have condemned us, we have always remained in the game and gave the feeling of being able to score goals; then the quality of Milan in the last metres is indisputable and if you make a mistake they punish you. I am not sorry for the choices made, but happy with the boys.”

Will this match make Monza grow like the one with Juve?

“I agree, because certain matches make you learn. Milan are the most complete team in Italy, they put anyone in difficulty. This match will make us grow a lot. I watch the growth of the boys day after day. We tried to play, without just throwing the ball forward and trying to put Milan in difficulty.”

Did Galliani say anything to you?

“Galliani is satisfied with the game. He was happy to come to San Siro, but with a little regret because at 3-1 we had the feeling that Milan might fear us. But I’m happy and the club is happy. With Berlusconi I have not yet talked.”