Head coach Paulo Fonseca spoke to the media in today's press conference ahead of the match against Lazio tomorrow in Rome. Here are his words:
A useful week to improve Parma's problems?
"Yes. We are aware that we didn't start well, but there's something very positive: we all agree, we are united. We want to find solutions, and that's what we did this week. Being all together makes it easier to work. We had a good week of work. I think we understood what really needs to be improved. We are united, we've worked well, and I expect to see a different Milan tomorrow."
Is the problem more technical or more tactical?
"We talked after the match: we all think the same. We were a bit sad the first day after Parma, but then we reacted, and it has been a very positive week. I don't like depression or looking for excuses: I'm here to find solutions. We'll see if tomorrow was the right path."
Will Tammy Abraham be called up tomorrow?
"I was surprised at lunch because Danso had arrived in Rome and now he isn’t here anymore. So, until it's official, I won't talk about Abraham. Tomorrow, we don't have Morata, we don't have Jovic because of back pain, we have Okafor and Camarda."
Is the market a consequence of the first two matches?
"I don't want to individualize the problems. I'm focused on the players we have now and on tomorrow's match. Then we'll see."
A comment on the Champions League draw? Fonseca said:
"I have a lot to think about before the Champions League... I like the format, first of all, because there are more matches between the big teams. For us, it's a very balanced draw, with Real Madrid, Liverpool, and Bayer, who are very strong. A balanced draw just like this format."
Fonseca also spoke about Rafael Leao and Theo Hernandez:
"It's easy to understand what we need to improve. I never talk about players individually, I always talk about us and the team. Individually, I talk with my players, but privately, never publicly."
Do you believe that this squad is suited to the style of football you have in mind, or might you adjust your approach?
"Yes. I say this because we’ve already done it. If we had never done it, I might have doubts. But in pre-season, we were close to what I want. I have the same confidence as in the first press conference. I have the same confidence in saying that these two games won't change the team I want."
How did you interact with the management during the transfer market?
"We are in contact every day, and we talk about everything. Then, of course, there are things that I cannot decide. But the relationship is as good as it can be. I would say I am very satisfied with the work the club has done to strengthen the team."
Do you believe that the team has understood your footballing ideas? Fonseca replied:
"I’ve already said that the pre-season was a good example of what we can be. All the players have been open to playing this kind of football. I have no doubts about what I believe in. I’m convinced of it."
Have you considered switching to a 4-3-3 formation?
"I don’t want to discuss this. I respect your opinion."
Should we expect a Milan with two players for each position?
"We want it to be that way, to have two players of the same level for each position."
You praised Alexis Saelemaekers and Luka Jovic, but now they are on their way out. What happened? Fonseca said:
"Nothing. Tomorrow, Camarda, Zeroli, Bartesaghi, and Cuenca are called up. Jovic is injured right now. Saelemaekers? We have to pay attention to the ambitions of the players."
If Ismael Bennacer leaves, do you expect another reinforcement? Maybe Adrien Rabiot?
"That’s a clever way to ask a market-related question. I’ve already said that I don’t talk about it. I expect to have the players I have available for tomorrow."
There was much criticism after the loss against Parma at the Tardini stadium
"I don't expect people to talk well about the team when we lose: it's normal. We have to find solutions for ourselves, not because others talk."
Are you happy with Ruben Loftus-Cheek in the attacking midfield?
"I'm happy with Loftus-Cheek. His role is important."
