For the much awaited match tomorrow against Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, head coach Stefano Pioli spoke to the media in a press conference and said these words:
"We're playing an important game; we could use the term 'turning point' for the group. They are a strong team but can face difficulties, so we need to play with everything we've got for the entire 95 minutes."
On the atmosphere at San Siro:
"I'll say just one thing: we knew about the Yellow Wall, but they don't know about the San Siro in the Champions League. We do. I'm sure the fans will also support us tomorrow evening."
Regarding the PSG match as inspiration:
"That's the reference point. We fell behind, but we remained a team until the end. That must be the mental attitude, although the game will be different because Dortmund is different from PSG."
About Samuel Chukwueze, Pioli said:
"I was pleased with his performance on Saturday. He worked a lot for the team, positioned himself well. He had a tough start due to an injury. Now, in my opinion, he's doing well. Maybe if he's a bit more central on the field, he'll get more involved in the game, but it depends on how we play and the combinations with Calabria."
On why this is the turning point match:
"The objective is clear: to be competitive in both the league and the Champions League. Progressing in the Champions League is very important."
On how he's seen the team, Pioli said:
"The team understands the importance of tomorrow's match but also carries the calmness that distinguishes us."
Regarding Ruben Loftus-Cheek:
"It was planned for Ruben to play a part on Saturday. He wasn't at 100% before the PSG match, so..."
On Theo Hernandez's condition:
"It happens to everyone to be criticized when there haven't been many wins in several matches. He has the qualities to always play great games. Regarding his position on the field: our players are very good at taking up the right positions. Theo moved into the middle of the field to take the penalty and provide a great assist for Jovic.
What do you want to see tomorrow:
"I want to see the team put everything they have on the field, I'm sure my players won't disappoint me."
Was it only about the three points against Fiorentina?
'We always play to win. Then there are moments and phases of the championship, and Saturday was the moment to approach the game in that way. Against PSG, we didn't go in the second half just to attack in their area..."
Pioli continued:
"Even if it's not about staying high or low on the field, it's about focus. We didn't concede goals against Lecce due to bad luck or positioning, but because of lack of attention.'
What should we expect from the Milan players tomorrow:
"Energy and a desire to overcome a difficult obstacle. Those feelings we know, that belong to us, that the fans have made us experience."
