AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli hopes that his side can channel the momentum from the last two wins, both of which brought about much-needed clean sheets.
Milan face off against Monza at the Stadio Brianteo tomorrow evening hoping to extend their winning run to three games after the 1-0 wins against Torino and Spurs at San Siro inside the last week.
The game against Tottenham in particular was a big step forward psychologically for Pioli’s men as they won a Champions League knockout game for the first time in his tenure and ended a decade-long wait as well.
Pioli spoke to the reporters who gathered at Milanello for his pre-match press conference on the eve of the trip north, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
Has the team always given everything and never let the fans down?
“Absolutely. This is the strength of our environment. The affection of the fans has never been lacking and this keeps us confident for the future.”
How are Milan doing?
“We’re coming from two good games and we have to do well tomorrow too. The next result will tell how the team is. We’re coming from a positive week, we have to do our best tomorrow too to win.”
Can Leao play the centre-forward as Berlusconi said?
“I always agree with Berlusconi.”
How are the team looking?
“Everyone experiences the results with a gut, we have to be impervious to both criticism and excessive praise. It’s the championship that gives us the concrete possibility of playing in the Champions League again next year. I’ve seen the things I wanted to see.”
What are you expecting from Monza?
“Palladino must be congratulated for the work he is doing. We will have to be careful tomorrow. In the first leg the result was wide, but it was a difficult match. We must play with confidence: it is an opportunity that must be exploited and to make many points. Maximum respect for a team that plays well.”
How are Tomori, Bennacer and Vrankcx?
“Tomori will be there. Bennacer won’t and Calabria won’t be there either due to a problem with a hip muscle. Vranckx is ready, he’s doing well.”
In whom did you see the eyes of the tiger?
“No one in particular, but everyone. We are ready for tomorrow.”
What can you tell us about Thiaw and his growth?
“I don’t discover talent, the club does it. I let them play when I see them ready. He has excellent qualities, he has everything to become a very strong defender.”
Why is Bennacer injured again?
“He still has some discomfort and therefore there’s no point in risking him. I hope he’s ready for Atalanta.”
How is Ibra doing?
“His condition is improving. He will be available again tomorrow.”
Could Origi start tomorrow?
“Giroud is doing well. Origi is ready, let’s see what choices I will make for tomorrow.”
Was a new Milan born with Tottenham?
“We’re doing well, but we can change without problems. It depends on how I see the team. I like the fact that I can play with more formations. I don’t know how long we’ll go on like this, we’ll certainly continue on this path tomorrow.”
What does Saelemaekers need to improve on? Can Messias play that role?
“Saele has to be careful not to get caught in behind in the defensive phase. In Belgium he played as a fifth player [wing-back], so he can do it. Like Messias, both of them can give us something important in a one-on-one.”
How is De Ketelaere doing?
“Our strength is the group, everything helps each other. Leao, Tonali and Kalulu have experienced similar moments and therefore the support for Charles is important. I’m sure he will give us some satisfaction”.
What do you need to be better at tomorrow?
“In both phases. We have to put them in difficulty and we have to be compact and attentive behind them.”
Is there a deputy Bennacer in the squad?
“Against Tottenham, I was very satisfied with the two midfielders. In the build-up phase we have to do better, but I’m satisfied with Krunic. As soon as Bennacer returns, we’ll have one more option.”
How do you judge Milan’s momentum?
“Unfortunately or fortunately, situations change quickly. A defeat can throw you away, while a victory changes everything. I saw a team willing to do well tomorrow too.”
Are Monza a team that can cause problems for the top sides?
“They are playing well, so tomorrow we’ll need a high-level performance and great determination. In the last two games we’ve won over 60% in tackles, we’ll have to do well in this sense tomorrow too.”
What do you think of Leao’s words of support for De Ketelaere?
“The desire to help each other has never been lacking. In difficult times, having someone close to help you and give you advice is important, especially for such young kids.”
