Pioli discusses task of replacing Calhanoglu and insists Kessie is ‘happy’ at Milan

By Oliver Fisher -

Stefano Pioli has stated that AC Milan still ‘need quality’ in the market, and attempted to cool rumours of Franck Kessie’s potential exit.

Before the first training session of the season, Pioli spoke to the media who gathered in the conference room at Milanello so answer some questions about the upcoming season, with his comments transcribed by MilanNews.

With Hakan Calhanoglu having left on a free transfer to join rivals Inter, Milan have been left with a gap in the No.10 role and a number of names have emerged as potential options to replace him, such as Philippe Coutinho, James Rodriguez and Marcel Sabitzer.

Pioli was asked what he needs from Calhanoglu’s replacement, and ‘quality’ seemed to be the word that prevailed.

“I am connected to all the players of last year, Gigio and Calha gave a lot until the last day. I am convinced to find a motivated group willing to do well. The transfer market is still long, we need quality players. With the right quality and spirit you can go far.”

A lot of the recent media headlines have also been dominated by the renewal of Kessie, with multiple outlets reporting the club will raise their renewal offer to keep him.

When asked if Milan will make an effort to keep him, Pioli responded: “These are club things. We all know how important Franck is and how happy he is to be at Milan.”


Tags AC Milan Franck Kessie Hakan Calhanoglu Stefano Pioli
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