AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali has said that his team should not make the mistake of managing the game against RB Salzburg on Wednesday night.
Speaking to Sky Sport (via Pianeta Milan) on the day before the huge Champions League clash, the Italian central midfielder suggested that Milan just need to play their own game and try to win, rather than playing for the draw which will be enough to see them through to the Round of 16.
“We are lucky to play at home in an incredible stadium. We must not make the mistake of managing the game because that would be the first step that can lead to mistakes. We must play to win and to score goals.”
Speaking more generally about just how important the match is, the midfielder explained that they can get a sense of their improvements in recent years on the night.
“It’s the match that can give us a big responsibility and great boost. A match in which we can understand our improvements over the last three years. We must face it with the will to win.”
He was also asked about the DNA of the club and in the current team and he mentioned Paolo Maldini coming to the training pitch to see the team.
“Milan have made history in Europe and every Champions League match is keenly felt. Having Paolo [Maldini] come to the camp this morning and be there for us makes you realise how much everyone cares about us. We are one step away from our first goal but we have a tough game ahead of us.”
Stefano Pioli recently signed a new contract as the head coach at Milan and Tonali was clear in his praise.
“He’s good, there’s not much more to say. He knows how to treat us, how to manage the moments, how to study the matches, how to work during the week and how to work during the week like everyone else. He teaches us many things and is close to us.”
