AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli sat down for his pre-match press conference ahead of the highly anticipated UEFA Champions League round of 16 first leg tie against Tottenham Hotspur. The Rossoneri have been eagerly awaiting the chance to prove themselves on the European stage, and Pioli will no doubt be looking to set his team up for success at San Siro tomorrow. Speaking to the media, the gaffer said the following words:
"If we want to think of winning matches, we have to produce a high-level Milan. Conte is a great coach, who takes care of the details. A team with English characteristics has pace, physicality and quality. Conte is one of the few colleagues who called me when I won the Scudetto. It will be a difficult challenge."
Pioli announces that Ismael Bennacer will be absent:
"Bennacer trained with us but he's not 100%. He won't be in the match."
He added:
"We are here to play our chances and to try to go further. We want to pass this round."
In which position do you see Charles De Ketelaere performing best in this new formation?
"I think his ideal position is on the attacking midfield or a bit shifted to the right."
Did you prefer Tottenham not to come to this match after a heavy defeat?
"The week before, they beat City. We just have to focus on playing well in this game."
How much do you believe in winning the Champions League?
"We believe we can make it through this round. We're taking it one step at a time. Winning the Champions League would be a dream, but it's useless to think about it now."
Pioli concluded:
"As we prepare for our Champions League match, we are committed to performing at our best. I have seen a team that has prepared themselves to the fullest extent." With those final remarks, AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli concluded the press conference ahead of their first-leg round of 16 clash against Tottenham.
