Stefano Pioli admitted that Milan could have done many things better in their 1-0 defeat against Barcelona. However, he insisted that the USA tour as a whole has been positive for the Rossoneri.
Read SempreMilan ad-free and get access to exclusive news. Click here for a free trial!
In their three games in the States – facing Real Madrid, Juventus and Barcelona – Milan managed one draw and two losses. Not what Pioli was hoping for even if the results aren’t the main thing during a pre-season tour.
Speaking to the media at the press conference after the game, as cited by Gazzetta Dello Sport, Pioli shared his thoughts on the game. He admitted that there are quite a few things that the Rossoneri could have done better.
“The verdict of the tour is very positive, because we worked well and faced three top-level matches, which told us something special. There are three weeks left and what I’ve seen is certainly positive. The new players are adapting well, then it’s clear that time is needed.”
“From the three up front, I expect them to score goals. We’ve always been dangerous but we haven’t always taken the opportunities. We struggled to get the ball away from Barcelona and in the defensive phase, we conceded. We have to lose a few fewer balls, the ball must be managed better.
“Pass to Leao more? Of course, it’s a goal to get Rafa in possession as much as possible, but we don’t want him to be our only option and he must also give us the possibility to pass him, moving with more continuity,” he concluded.
Milan now have four friendlies remaining in Italy before their season opener against Bologna. There is still some work to do for Pioli and his coaching staff, that’s for sure, and it remains to be seen what the outcome will be.
