AC Milan Coach Stefano Pioli expressed himself to the media in the post-match press conference after the victory over the city bitter rivals Inter. Here are his statements:
"I don't know if it's the most beautiful, because last year's victories in Turin against Juve and the one in Bergamo was even more decisive than this. This, however, is important, because I train guys who never give up and who wanted to suffer against a very strong opponent. We wanted to win: of this I am very proud and I am very happy for our fans who deserved such satisfaction. We have the same points as last year, so there is still a long way to go."
Did you win this derby thanks to your substitutions?
"The team won it, because even in difficulties we interpreted the game as we wanted. We did it with courage, I count a strong team. Those who entered did very well. We absolutely must continue like this. Beautiful evening, but we must give continuity to this victory."
This character displayed tonight must surely help build for the future...
"I have always seen in my players great character and mentality. It is easy to be a team and think you are the best when you win all the games, it is less easy when you get such-like results, when pressure and criticism increase. We have never stopped playing. believe in our qualities and we fight in every single match. We are strong, but not insurmountable, so we have some difficulties too."
Pioli on Milan's goal:
"In front of my managers at the beginning of the season I told the team that the goal was to improve the last championship in terms of points. 79 points scored last year, 52 now is equal to last year at this point. We know that the return leg is always more complicated."
On Olivier Giroud:
"We have taken a player who has won a lot, like Maignan and Ibrahimovic. We need players who know what it takes to win to grow. Olivier knows that you have to stay on track always, never give up and be always a professional."
What did you say to the team during the week of preparation?
"I touched on the pride to wear the red and black shirt and the happiness that we could bring to the fans if we were to win the derby."
