Stefano Pioli spoke to the media following AC Milan’s crucial 2-1 win against Spezia. The Rossoneri had to fight until the very end and the manager is aware of the fact that they could have done better.
Milan had several chances to score, especially in the first half, but lacked a bit of composure this evening. Therefore, Spezia managed to equalise through Daniel Maldini (of course), forcing Olivier Giroud to score an 89th-minute match-winner.
Interviewed by Sky Italia, as cited by MilanNews, Pioli shared his thoughts on the game and he also spoke about Napoli. The league leaders won against Atalanta and are making life difficult for Pioli’s men.
Mister, have you ever scored a goal like Giroud’s?
“No, but I have got it from Totti. I was on the bench at Lazio (laughs). A great ball from Tonali and a great goal by Oli. It can happen to concede goals, but we must not stop playing: the team continues to believe in it, a painful victory.”
An answer to Napoli?
“We know we have to claim a lot of points, we want to get to November 13th with the best possible standings. We have to focus on our own race. I liked the first half, we need to improve to kill the game.”
Is it a group that reaches the right outcome in the end because they are carefree?
“Carefree no, it’s part of our mentality to believe in what we do and stay in the game. As far as mentality and character are concerned, we are second to none.”
Did you expect this Giroud?
“I made a video call with Olivier before he arrived, and the sensations were very positive. He’s a very strong guy, I’m very happy with his performance.”
On the results…
“It’s the work of a group, not just of my staff who have been close to me in delicate moments. It’s the work of my players who have an incredible desire to grow.”
On Daniel Maldini and the goal…
“I was sure he would score. Certain things are written in the stars. I knew he would play, because that’s how football is. I think it was the perfect evening for Paolo Maldini: Daniel scored a good goal and Milan won.”
On De Ketelaere…
“I still foresee ups and downs, it’s normal for such a young player who has changed environment and his way of working. Charles has quality, talent, intelligence and availability. His growth will come but when is difficult to say. I’m absolutely convinced of his qualities.”
Milan will take on Cremonese on Tuesday and they will have to make the most of their chances in that game. In addition to Theo Hernandez (yellow card accumulation), Olivier Giroud will also miss out due to his red card this evening.
I like Stefano Pioli. He’s what you get when you cross an Italian philosophy professor with a Buddhist monk. Intelligent, analytical, humble, and austere, he has an authentic personality. He’ll lead the Rossoneri to great heights, provided the owners back him financially and don’t sell his best players.
Very well said, I hope they are prophetic words!
What a great manager in stafano pioli ..
He knows how to bring the best out of his players .
He needs complete backing of the owners as has already been said and of course to keep his best players ….Now onto the absolute bargain ,that of signing of Olivier Giroud,what a steal that was ..
I have never doubted Oliviers quality and knew he would be a success ,the man is world class .lots more goals to come from him .
Hnmm,…Daniel Maldini scored against Milan..
Maldini scored Maldini…..
Milan scored Milan…..