AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli has boldly claimed that his side must attack Atalanta in order to best stop them from scoring.
Milan need to respond after losing their last two games, firstly the 4-2 defeat against Monza at the U-Power Stadium a week ago and then on Thursday night against Stade Rennais in the Europa League, though they did go through on aggregate.
Atalanta meanwhile have been on an outstanding run of form having won their last six games, and with a victory at San Siro they would not only beat the Rossoneri for the third time this season but they would also move four points behind.
An added layer of pressure for Milan comes from the fact that Inter and Juventus both won earlier today, so three points is a necessity to keep pace.
Pioli spoke to DAZN a few minutes before kick-off to preview what is an important test for his side, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
How is the group doing with only one training session after Rennes but also on a mental level after the seven goals conceded in two games?
“He’s fine. We come from an important qualification and we know that this is an important match for the top four places of the ranking because they are pushing below and we want to win again.”
Atalanta have won five consecutive games, scoring 10 different goal scorers. How do you contain a team that sends so many players firing? What should Milan do in the defensive phase?
“Attack them. We have to attack better than them.”
Leao scored a beautiful goal against Rennes, but every now and then he is criticised for not being clinical in front of goal. Is it something that he trains, is it something that you ask for?
“It’s something that you have to look for in yourself, but you’re doing it and you’re improving your situation and you’ll try to be the protagonist again tonight.”
