Stefano Pioli, after the AC Milan victory against Sassuolo (thanks to the only goal scored by Christian Pulisic), has spoken to Sky Sport Italia and said these words:
"We won well, we could have scored a few more goals and we could have done better; we need to find that continuity throughout the 95 minutes to reach a higher standard. The guys did very well and were very attentive. Sassuolo gives away a lot but can be dangerous. The group is united, compact, they never give in to difficulties and want to overcome them."
Pioli added:
"I believe that a coach's skills lie in understanding their own team. A few years ago, I was a torment to them with videos and tactics; now I give them a lot of freedom because I trust them, their sense of responsibility and belonging, their respect for the club and the coach. I'm not saying I do nothing anymore, but I step back a bit, letting them manage certain moments."
On his relationship with the club, the coach said:
"In a very simple and banal way, as long as I'm here, it's because the club has faith in my ideas and my work. I've never felt otherwise, but I understand everything because I'm not a kid anymore. At Milan, if you don't win... I understand that even my position might be at risk, but I've never had this thought, never considered that it could be my last game. We need to focus on doing better in 2024 compared to 2023."
Regarding Ismael Bennacer's position, Pioli said:
"Bennacer is pushed forward because he feels very comfortable there. He and Pulisic could be a good pair like Loftus and Leao on the left. Initially, we forced a few balls, but it was just precision that was lacking to hurt Sassuolo. Fortunately, there was Isma's assist that allowed Pulisic to score the decisive goal."
On the jeers aimed at Rafael Leao:
"I think they were affectionate jeers, a sign of knowing the player's qualities. People always expect a certain level. He's certainly not yet in the best condition after the injury; today, he won some one-on-ones, but he also knows he can and should improve."
Pioli continued:
"I'm fine because I work with a fantastic group and have always had the club's trust. Aside from Gasperini and Allegri, there aren't many situations where you remain at a high level in a club for many years. And then, we're talking about results; we had a great journey to the title, you can't step back from there. But there are other realities, like Liverpool, who struggled last year. We've changed a lot, but I'm the first to say we can do more. I'm not depressed or diminished; it's part of the game. It seems strange to me, you compliment me, and then I hear talk of criticisms, where do they come from? I believe the team can do well and turn the season into a positive one."
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