Stefano Pioli, the mastermind behind Milan's Scudetto triumph in May 2022, has been bestowed with the highly-coveted Panchina d'Oro 2023 for his outstanding work with the AC Milan club in Serie A during the 2021-2022 campaign. The gaffer was presented with the prestigious accolade at Coverciano by Lorenzo Casini, the President of the Serie A League, and Umberto Calcagno, the President of the Italian Footballers' Association.
Out of a total of 46 votes, Pioli garnered 33, fending off stiff competition from the likes of the astute Davide Nicola, who saved Salernitana from relegation with four votes, and the sly Luciano Spalletti, who is currently steering Napoli towards success in both the league and the Champions League with three votes.
Delighted with the honour, the Milan boss stated, "Good morning everyone. I am over the moon because when I reminisce about what we accomplished last year, I still feel the same emotions. I would like to dedicate this award to everyone at Milanello, to the club, and to the management. My staff, who are the driving force behind my work, and most importantly, my players, whom I believe are a truly special group. Thank you to them and to all of you."
