AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli has suggested his side will be going for the win next week against Red Bull Salzburg after brushing aside Dinamo Zagreb.
The Rossoneri made the trip to Croatia knowing that they would have to beat a Dinamo Zagreb side that were yet to lose at home this calendar year in order to give themselves a position where a draw against Red Bull Salzburg would be enough.
The end result was emphatic as Matteo Gabbia, Rafael Leao, Olivier Giroud and an own-goal all contributed to a four-goal rout that could have actually ended up as an even higher scoreline in truth.
Pioli spoke after the game in his press conference to give his thoughts on what was a memorable night for his young squad as they secured a vital victory in a must-win game, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.
Great performance, what gave you the most excitement?
“How we faced the difficulties. After fixing some positions, we resumed attacking with many players. It’s a heavy, important victory and we know.”
Were you satisfied with De Ketelaere?
“I took him off because he was booked. I am satisfied with his growth and will continue to improve.”
Is victory one more step of growth?
“I think it is clear that our growth depends on qualification. We have to play with our mentality and it is the next step, where we would show that we are doing better than last year. We must close the discussion next Wednesday without forgetting the league. We need concentration for the match against Torino. Then we will have the time and attention necessary to take care of the next Champions League match in the best possible way.”
Is it a double-edged sword knowing two out of three results next week gets Milan through?
“Two out of three results isn’t a double-edged sword. We are not mentally and tactically built to manage, we have to play our best to get a win.”
Is Gabbia an example of your work?
“I continue to be convinced of the strength of my group. I emphasise Matteo’s seriousness, but also his skills. He has a sense of position, physicality and skill in aerial duels. He has always worked at his best in training and is taking everything he is sowing.”
An evaluation on Ante Rebic?
“Ante is a strong and intelligent player. We talked about him in the summer. Unfortunately he is not always very well and when he is well, I have to use him on the right as well. Because Ante is strong. All at the beginning we struggled a bit because we had to change positions.”
