Following the heavy defeat against Lille on Thursday, Milan will be looking to bounce back with a win tomorrow evening, taking on Hellas Verona. Stefano Pioli spoke to the media at his usual press conference this afternoon.
The Rossoneri’s unbeaten run, which was at an impressive 24 games, came to an end as a result of the loss. Therefore, it will be important for the players to get back to winning ways tomorrow, thus avoiding any particular drama.
Stefano Pioli, as cited by MilanNews.it, was asked about the loss and the upcoming game. He defended his players but also made it clear that tomorrow is important, as they will want to show what kind of team they are.
On the loss: “We lowered the level of our performance against the wrong opponent, we must be ready to get back to doing a good performance tomorrow.”
What is missing: “We had the right spirit but we didn’t have the technical precision, we know what our path is. We have to take tomorrow’s game with great determination, it’s another opportunity to show what a team we are.”
If he spoke to Ibrahimovic: “I always talk to the players, we are all in the same direction, there was no need for interventions. We know that on Thursday the level was not optimal but we have the qualities to make up for it.”
On excessive expectations: “We create pressures ourselves, we are very strict with ourselves, we want to be ambitious. What the media say doesn’t interest us nor worry us. The important thing is to stay focused, we want to grow and try to win games.”
On Romagnoli: “In the football world, criticism and praise are always excessive, we are talking about a team leader, he is trying to avoid unfavourable situations.”
On Hauge: “We are many in that role there, he is a strong player, he will give us satisfaction, but it’s right to think game by game. It depends on the conditions of the players.”
On Castillejo: “He has had a more complicated summer, he is working to return in the best possible way, he has the qualities and the skills to do it.”
On Rebic starting: “I don’t think so, but he’s better, he’s not at 100% yet but I hope to have him at the maximum after the break.”
On Tonali: “It takes patience, the important thing is that the boys have quality. On Thursday, he faced a very strong opponent like Renato Sanches. These are opportunities to grow.”
The game is scheduled for 20:45 CET and will take place at San Siro, which is a plus for the Rossoneri. Verona have started the season well (3W, 2D, 1L) and will be a tough nut to crack for the home side.
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