Pioli: “Health workers are heroes, they are our angels; I send all our fans an affectionate hug”

By Oliver Fisher -

AC Milan boss Stefano Pioli has revealed that he is missing his daily routine at Milanello, and urged people to continue to stay at home.

Italy continues to be at the centre of the battle against Coronavirus. As Sky News notes, the death toll in Italy accounts for more than a third of the total number worldwide, as the total number of dead is now 10,779.

For the time being football has understandably taken a back seat as the country aims to get to grips with the pandemic.

However, many players and coaches continue to play an important role in spreading awareness through donations, and also by encouraging people to adhere to the guidelines and boundaries put in place by the government.

Pioli spoke during a video call with Federico Giunti, Maurizio Ganz and Mauro Suma. The video was published on the official AC Milan app, and his words were transcribed by MilanLive.

“I miss everything, because we have been in this environment for many years and therefore we miss the everyday life of being in the locker room,” he said.

“Being with the players, with my assistants, training…we miss it so much. But I’m finding a way to pass the days. I listen to music all day, music makes me happy. I talk a lot with my family. I do housework, I watch many TV series and sports videos.

“I keep myself informed, I’m curious. I speak to my assistants, the club. Unfortunately, many people are suffering and are fighting, there is obviously concern.”

Two members of Milan who have been affected by the pandemic are technical director Paolo Maldini and his son Daniel.

“I knew he had the flu and had not been present in the last few days just for this,” Pioli revealed.

“We talk to him daily. He is proving to be a champion even in this situation, he has faced it with strength and with the right spirit. With the desire to fight and overcome everything. I am happy that the situation is resolving in the best way.

“We who can help and be in solidarity must do so in this dramatic situation for the country. With our behaviour and also at an economic level we can give, given that we are lucky. We can collaborate and give great solidarity to those who are doing an incredible job.”

On the importance of staying at home: “Now there are no more doubts, staying at home means saving lives. Health workers are heroes, they are our angels.

“I send all our fans an affectionate hug. I hope that things go well for everyone and that things can improve quickly. I hope we can meet again in San Siro, it will be a moment of great enthusiasm and participation. Our fans have always given us unique warmth and affection.”

“We are fortunate that we can stay at home with the family and do things that maybe we cannot enjoy normally. It is a test of responsibility, civic sense and respect. Let’s stay at home and do it with the right attention.”

Tags AC Milan Stefano Pioli
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