Pioli expresses delight after Roma win and explains why Scudetto is now more realistic

By Isak Möller -

AC Milan clinched three huge points at the Olimpico this evening, beating Roma by two goals to one after what was a dramatic ending. Stefano Pioli’s men, however, deserved to win the game. 

For the first time in their history, Milan have won 10 out of the first 11 games, becoming only the fourth team to do so in Serie A history. In other words, tonight’s win was very important and is yet another confirmation of the team’s incredible growth.

Speaking to DAZN after the game, as cited by MilanNews, Pioli spoke about the performance and what the win gives his team. He also praised Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who was the Rossoneri’s MOTM this evening (see our ratings here).

On refereeing…

“It is right that you comment on the referee’s decisions, I train the team and now we throw ourselves back into the Champions League. We want to be proactive in the Champions League as well: with Porto, which is an excellent team, we will try.”

On the performance…

“I have four midfielders, plus Krunic, of great quality. I have the possibility to rotate them a little more, because playing with these rhythms is not easy. I know Bennacer well: he has these qualities. We have to continue like this: in some moments we are bosses, in others we defend ourselves, in others, we fix things; the red card complicated things for us, but we gritted our teeth and took the victory home against a difficult opponent who had never lost at the Olimpico. Credit to my players.”

On the results…

“A lot of merit goes to the club that has given continuity to this project, taking young people of potential and experienced players. We have grown, but we are at the beginning of the season; there are so many difficulties in winning games, you suffer with all the players. We have to keep our performances and our mentality high.”

On Ibrahimovic…

“Ibra is always energized, every day. The champions also feed on these motivations. Ibra is a great champion who is helping the team to grow.”

If Milan are favourites…

“I don’t know, there are very strong teams. Inter are the favourites, Napoli are very strong and I don’t think Juve are out of the game. Last year in the head-to-head matches, we knew we had to do something exceptional, I’m not saying a miracle but… This year, however, we are more aware of being a strong team that can play with our mentality, we are convinced we can win. The important thing is to always believe in it.”

On Ibra’s condition…

“if he manages to train continuously, he will only be able to grow. Tonight I saw him more relaxed in his movements, more connected with the team, more active. I also saw Giroud well.”

On the victory…

“These matches give us strength, conviction and morale. We have to ride this positive moment, staying very focused. We are always very positive, in our attitudes, among them and in the difficulties.”

On Wednesday evening, another crucial game awaits as they will face Porto in the Champions League. They must claim all three points to have a chance of advancing to the next round, but it won’t be easy.

READ MORE: Kessie the victim of racial abuse from Roma fans as well as Ibrahimovic

Tags AC Milan Roma Stefano Pioli

4 Comments

  1. Are you just realizing that the Scudetto is more realistic, after losing your first 3 games in UCL, you are praying for some “Magic”, were other teams can help you do the job you failed to do. Though it was totally his fault, as some decisions didn’t go out way, but Pioli still has a lot to learn, and I hope he does, if he wants to become one of the best. Focus in Serie A. Let the boys learn from their mental mistakes in the UCL. Mr. Pioli we are all solidly behind you. Great job so far. Forza Milan!!!

Comments are closed

Serie A Standings

Live football scores . Current table, fixtures & results.