Following the dramatic win against Udinese, AC Milan manager Stefano Pioli spoke to the media and shared his thoughts on the clash. He also commented on the abuse that Mike Maignan received, stating that the responsible fans must be kept away from the stadiums.
It was a rather strange clash at Stadio Friuli tonight, with Udinese clearly aiming to slow down the tempo and get as many breaks as possible. In the 34th minute, the play came to a halt completely following racist chants directed at Maignan, resulting in Milan leaving the pitch.
The play was eventually resumed and Milan managed to clinch all three points, scoring the 3-2 winner in the 93rd minute. Speaking to Sky Italia, as cited by MilanNews, Pioli shared his thoughts on the win and what needs to be done about the fans who cannot behave.
On the chants in the stands…
“I’m clearly disappointed. I can say that I coach someone like Maignan, who is so respectful, correct and proud. It’s time to stop hearing certain things in the stadium: the ignorant people must stay at home!”
100 victories in Serie A for you…
“In the first half, we should have scored a few more goals, then out of nowhere we conceded two goals and the match became more difficult. But then if you play, if you believe in it, if you believe in your teammates and in your qualities, you can achieve important results.”
On the standings and the title race…
“We are not thinking about April-May, but about Bologna. For now, Inter and Juve are keeping too high a pace, we can only think about ourselves. Game by game, and we must work well.”
Leao doesn’t seem to miss the goal…
“Rafa’s tactical, technical and mental growth is over. The numbers say that the number of assists is higher than in the past. We have changed the way of playing a bit, we have fewer counter-attack opportunities for him, and he’s learning to move in other spaces. I think he lacks goals, but for us the team absolutely comes first.”
You have 4 points less than in the Scudetto year…
“We lost points in the direct clashes and in November, but now we are improving and growing. These victories must give us more confidence and conviction as we try to improve last year’s score and also do something more.”
The team reacted to the elimination from the Champions League…
“I’m happy that you highlight this. They are Milan players, it’s the attitude that counts.”
Can you still imagine the next 100 victories with Milan?
“Let’s hope so!”.
Milan have now won four consecutive games in the league, unbeaten for six, and will take on Bologna at San Siro next week. It’s an important game for the Rossoneri, as the Rossoblu also are fighting for a spot in the Champions League.
Rather Pioli than the names being bandied about.
#IPIT
Pioli better than Motta
#IPIT
My man thinks he is going for another 100 wins. Hahah. July is coming fast and hopefuly with certain changes so Pioli- enjoy while yoi can 😘