On the eve of Milan-Sassuolo, Stefano Pioli spoke to the media at the usual press conference at Milanello (via MilanNews.it). Celebrating 120 years of existence, the Rossoneri will be looking to claim the three points.
Following two consecutive games, against Parma and Bologna, Pioli’s men will be looking to add a third to the tally. In fact, they have only managed to reach two consecutive wins this season (on two occasions), so a third would be a positive sign.
Of course, as the team has performed very well as of late, Pioli is confident ahead of tomorrow’s clash. However, he also made it very clear that they haven’t got out of the tunnel just yet.
“We knew the importance of these two games. We all have to have the desire to finish the first part of the season well. We haven’t got out of the tunnel yet, but we see the light and we must continue to shine and do well.
“The team must be able to read situations, every game must be like the others. We must be concrete, with a pass we can create danger. We are coming from two very good performances but can still grow a lot,” he began.
Mattia Caldara is back in the squad after recovering from a serious injury, having played two games with the Primavera side. When asked about the defender, Pioli refused to rule out an appearance tomorrow, which would be his Serie A debut for the club.
“Caldara? If he’s called up, he’s available to play. He’s definitely better, the two games with the Primavera gave him more pace. He can’t be 100% but it’s right that he’s in the squad.
“Bonaventura? He’s an important player, the more important players we have the better we can do. Jack is one of them, there are many, I’m very happy with the work they are doing. Now we have to push.
“A striker in January? Tomorrow, we will play an important game. In January, I will answer the market questions. Leao not a striker? He’s one that works a lot with movement, he’s working to improve and to expand his tactical baggage.
“Calhanoglu? He’s a very strong and important player, I don’t think he’s a pure winger, he must play across the board, collaborate with Theo and Bonaventura, we must be good at covering the whole field,” he concluded.
READ MORE: Caldara could make Serie A debut for AC Milan against Sassuolo
