Stefano Pioli offered a deeply introspective look into his football journey, sharing profound insights about his experiences at Milan and current role at Al Nassr.
On his Saudi Arabian experience, Pioli was enthusiastic: “It’s going well, a stimulating and different experience. It’s what I wanted – different habits, a new culture, a new championship, new players. It’s a situation deeply involving me. It’s a country in massive development, just like Saudi football. I believe they’re doing good work, there’s still much to do, but they’re growing quickly.”
Regarding Cristiano Ronaldo, Pioli was effusive: “Cristiano is more than just a champion. He’ll remain in football history. There are champions, but fewer legends, and Cristiano is a legend. Our relationship is very simple and easy for me. He’s an incredible professional who wants to give his maximum every day, wants to help the team.”
On his decision to move to Saudi Arabia, he explained: “When I left Milan, I had a couple of opportunities in Italy and one in France, but I didn’t feel ready immediately. Then the Al Nassr offer arrived. Their proposal included motivational strength, growth potential, and economic power. Honestly, after Milan, I wanted to try something international, something different and new.”
Discussing Theo Hernandez and Rafael Leao, Pioli was particularly candid: “They’re two guys we grew together with, two guys I deeply loved. They needed certain types of relationships but are also sunny, beautiful, difficult because they’re not so consistent, sometimes a bit indolent. I had a beautiful relationship with them, though they sometimes made me angry because they could influence the match result both positively and negatively.”
On Rafael Leao specifically, Pioli showed remarkable nuance: “Rafa is a wonderful guy. His body language can be misleading, but he’s very intelligent, sensitive, and kind-hearted. He needs to be encouraged, stimulated, helped. I continue to see continuous growth in Rafa. I’m not sure if he’ll become a top player and win a Ballon d’Or, but I’ve always supported him and continue to believe he could become a Ballon d’Or player.”
Reflecting on his Milan tenure, Pioli’s most emotional moment came discussing the Scudetto: “It still gives me chills. I believe that feeling will never pass. It was so unexpected, so beautiful to experience with a very young team – a particular magic that will always remain in my heart, in my head, in everything I do.”
