In a press conference held at the National Stadium in Bratislava, Milan coach Paulo Fonseca addressed the upcoming match against Slovan. Speaking to the gathered press, the Portuguese tactician acknowledged the challenges his team faces in maintaining focus against lower-ranked opponents. He expressed concerns about the potential for underestimating the opposition, stating, “We have talked about how important it is to win tomorrow. We must recognize that we are playing against a team with completely different characteristics, and it is crucial for us to have the right attitude to win.”
Fonseca was questioned about the possibility of rotating players, particularly star forward Rafael Leao. He remarked, “Honestly, I don’t know. We will see tomorrow. Rafa is an important player for our team and is in a good moment. But I trust everyone: if Rafa doesn’t play, another player will.” He emphasized the team’s determination to secure a victory, stating that they would field a squad focused on winning.
Reflecting on Milan’s recent performance against Juventus, which ended in a disappointing 0-0 draw, he noted that his team has performed well against top teams but struggles against those lower in the standings. “What I know right now is that against big teams we have done well and less so against the ‘smaller’ ones. We are working to be a team with the attitude and ambitions shown against the big teams,” he said.
When asked if the Champions League changes how his players approach matches against lesser opponents, Fonseca agreed, saying, “Yes, I think so. The Champions League is different. Everyone likes to play in these matches; the motivation is higher.” He added that he expects his players to bring that same motivation into their next game.
After the match against Juventus, Fonseca observed that while there were positives to take away from their performance, there is a noticeable difference in expectations for Milan. “A draw seems like a defeat for Milan while a victory for other teams,” he said. This sentiment reflects the pressure on Milan to perform consistently well.
Looking ahead to their match against Slovan Bratislava, Fonseca expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete. “Today we talked about how important the Champions League is for us with these matches. I believe we have the chance to win them,” he stated.
Regarding player fitness, he mentioned Youssouf Fofana’s heavy workload this season but indicated it would be challenging to rest him for this match. He also provided updates on Emerson Royal’s injury status and noted that Davide Calabria would step in as needed.
Fonseca shared his appreciation for Bratislava as a city and acknowledged his familiarity with Slovan Bratislava from previous encounters. “It’s a beautiful city; it’s nice to see it again. I know Slovan well; they are a physical team. If we don’t have the right attitude, it will be difficult.”
Addressing criticisms about Milan’s identity after three months under his management, Fonseca respectfully acknowledged differing opinions but defended his approach: “I respect opinions; I can’t comment on who speaks and how they speak. It’s not totally fair to say that. If we look at our results in the league, we could have done much better. But if we understand what this process has been, then I say it’s not fair.”
