AC Milan's tactician Stefano Pioli addressed the media today in a press conference ahead of his team's next match against AC Monza away from home this weekend. The Italian coach answered questions on a range of topics, including his team's recent form and the challenges posed by their upcoming opponents. Speaking at the live press conference, Pioli said the following words:
"The team has never stopped believing in itself, the love of the fans is mutual, we feel it a lot and this makes us rest assured for the future."
He added:
"We're coming from two games played well in a row, it's the result that tells how a team is doing. Tomorrow's game will be difficult, putting in the best possible performance and winning the game will count."
Can Rafael Leao play as a striker, as Berlusconi said?
"I always agree with Berlusconi."
On the conditions of some players:
"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."
He added:
"Monza? Coach 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."
On Malick Thiaw's 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."
Pioli on Zlatan Ibrahimovic:
"He still has some discomfort and therefore there's no point in risking him. I hope he's ready for Atalanta."
Can 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 against 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."
On Alexis Saelemaekers:
"Saele needs to be careful not to get caught out of position defensively. He played as a defender in Belgium, so he can do it. Similarly, Messias can give us something important in one-on-one situations."
Pioli continued:
"Our strength is the group, everyone helps each other. Leao, Tonali, and Kalulu have all gone through similar moments, so supporting Charles is important. I'm sure he'll give us satisfaction."
What should be improved and worked on in view of tomorrow's game?
"In both phases. We need to make things difficult for them and be compact and attentive at the back."
Who is Bennacer's backup?
"I was very satisfied with the two central midfielders against Tottenham. We need to do better in the build-up phase, but I'm happy with Krunic. Once Bennacer is back, we'll have one more option."
How do you judge Milan's current form?
"The team plays 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 as well."
