Stefano Pioli, the coach of AC Milan, spoke exclusively to Sky Sport Italia microphones before the Rossoneri's departure for the United States of America. Here are the gaffer's words:
On the adjective he would like to associate with Milan for the 2023-2024 season:
"A happy Milan. I have a goal, and I've said it to everyone: to be happy and to coach happy players. Happy to play together and to play a certain style of football. And to wear such a prestigious shirt. There's enthusiasm and excitement, as is normal at the beginning of the season. We are Milan, and 2023-24 must be important. We are approaching the year with some changes, but I see everyone motivated."
On the emotions of winning the Scudetto in 2022 and what winning the Champions League would mean:
"Winning a Scudetto is very difficult and beautiful; it gives you an idea of the work you've done throughout the year. Winning the Champions League would be something exceptional, but it also requires a bit of luck. I think winning a league is more about merit, while winning the Champions League involves many other factors."
Pioli on how Milan will be without Zlatan Ibrahimović and on today's leaders:
"Ibra has been the leader of this team. There's no one who can take his place. If I had to name a player who is a leader, then that would be Mike Maignan. He has a mentality, determination, and an obsession to be the best that can be contagious. He is a reference point."
On what he expects from Rafael Leão:
"Based on what he's showing on the field and in his attitudes, I expect further growth from him. He still has room for improvement, although he is already at a very high level."
On Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Pioli said:
"He is a strong player. He combines physicality and quality, and he likes to get into scoring positions. I would like to see him consistently involved in the opponent's area. Based on his characteristics, we will try to develop a proactive style of play with more offensive players capable of finding the winning play, which perhaps we lacked in some tactically challenging matches in the past."
On Tijjani Reijnders:
"He is also a quality player, moves well, is intelligent, and provides the right solutions to his teammates in possession. He can also be dangerous in the attacking zone. He has a good shot and can create scoring opportunities."
On Christian Pulisic:
"He knows how to do the right thing at the right moment. When you have someone like him, things become easier. He can play in various roles. He's definitely intelligent, can dribble past defenders, whether it's in one-on-one situations or with quick give-and-goes or runs. He's of high caliber and different from his teammates. I still believe that various characteristics, within a well-defined system of play, can add an element of unpredictability to the team."
On AC Milan's new midfield:
"In the midfield department, we were looking for new names, new positions, and new qualities. The arrival of Loftus-Cheek and Reijnders completes it. We believe we have taken the path of high-quality players, better ball management, and offensive situations. All of this is to make the team even more attacking and dominant. In the offensive half of the field, I want players capable of making the right choices at the right moment, something we haven't always achieved in the past."
On Milan moving on without Paolo Maldini and Frederic Massara:
"The club decided to turn the page, but the history is not forgotten. We know what we have achieved together, and we know the path that brought us to certain levels. Everyone who worked with us made a contribution. They were very present, positive, and important. Clearly, now, there is a different situation, with different people. I see great enthusiasm in them and a willingness to do things well. We all want to do our best every day."
Pioli on the bond between Milan and its fans:
"When we went through difficult moments, they showed they are a unique, special, and fantastic fanbase. There was a time when it was tough to stand by our side, but they did it with passion and incredible trust."
On using the 4-3-3 formation for the upcoming season, Pioli said:
"The 4-3-3 could be a change, yes, but much will depend on the knowledge we have on the field or if other players arrive. We will also use other systems, but we are already accustomed to changing within the same match. It will require great spirit and time, as new players are coming in, who are already mature. They know how to be on the field and interact with the rest of the team, which has a solid foundation for many years. They are smart guys, eager to learn, both on and off the field, and they blend into a cohesive group. I have positive feelings."
