AC Milan boss Stefano Pioli has claimed that he continues to be left ‘surprised’ by the mentality of his side as they racked up yet another win.
It was far from a vintage performance at the Marassi, but a Franck Kessie penalty and a goal from Samu Castillejo were enough to secure all three points and move the Rossoneri five points clear at the top once again.
Pioli was interviewed by Milan TV at the end of the game, and began by reflecting on his 50th game in charge of Milan.
“Our opponents always create difficulties for us, the third match in a week is the one I fear the most, luckily my players don’t. We deserved the victory. I liked the first half more than the second half, the team put a lot of quality and sacrifice into it,” he said.
On Tonali: “The growth of the team helps individuals to improve and vice versa. We forget that he is only 20 years old, his first year in a great team with great expectations. He can grow further, he has all the characteristics to be a top player.”
On the young average age of the squad: “The most important aspect is the mental one. The team was good, today we played without a recognised backbone like Ibra, Ismael and Kjaer.
“They surprised me with their mentality, in every game they find motivation. As a coach I hope to recover as many players as possible, we want to make a good impression in all competitions.”
