AC Milan manager Sergio Conceicao recently addressed the media, laying out his thoughts ahead of the crucial Champions League playoff first-leg match against Feyenoord. With the highly anticipated game in Rotterdam looming, Conceicao conveyed his strategies, player expectations, and the overall team philosophy.
“There are more than four champions in my squad, not just the ones up front. These four are part of the solutions we have available. It’s not like we have many options. We have 15 outfield players plus some youngsters. Due to injuries and players not listed, we face this difficulty,” he explained, emphasizing the importance of balance amid squad limitations.
Key Players and Their Roles
Regarding specific players, Conceicao voiced satisfaction with Rafael Leao: “Rafa is available as he has been in previous matches. He came on and did his job as we wanted him to.” He also spoke highly of young talent Francesco Camarda, remarking, “Anyone who is part of Milan’s squad is already a great player. He’s a good kid with a desire to learn and grow.”
Conceicao had particularly high praise for Santiago Gimenez, who will be facing his former club. “Tomorrow we have an important match; we must win to move forward. Santiago is someone I’ve followed for years and know well. He’s growing and has great potential. If he scores, it’s thanks to the team’s work. He has talent but must continue working hard and align with the team’s strategy.”
Team Philosophy and Challenges
The Milan coach underscored the necessity of teamwork over individual brilliance: “Balance is achieved with the whole team, not just with the four up front. I have more than two squads when you include our youth sector. We’re competing in all tournaments and need to perform well. It’s not about having many attackers to score more goals or defenders to concede fewer.”
Concerning defensive strategies, he added: “Any pair or trio in defense gives me confidence. I want a compact team with a high line; we’re working on it.”
The Future at Milan
When asked about his future at Milan and whether he could emulate Carlo Ancelotti’s long tenure, Conceicao responded practically: “It depends on results. Coaches always have their suitcases ready because everything changes quickly in football. The focus should be on the present; the future depends on what we do today. I’m not worried about this—at Porto, they said I’d stay three or four months, but I stayed seven years.”
Facing a Tricky Feyenoord Side
Acknowledging Feyenoord’s recent managerial change and their historical strength at home, Conceicao noted: “A coaching change naturally motivates a group; it’s not necessarily negative for them. Playing in Holland is always tough.” Reflecting on a previous match against Dinamo Zagreb, he admitted: “It wasn’t a good game at all. We need to show where we want to go tomorrow on the pitch.”
Progress and Growth
Conceicao also highlighted the team’s development since his arrival: “There’s been more time to work with those who were already here. We know each other better now—they understand what I want more clearly. Collectively, we’re closer to being the team I envision. There’s still a lot of work ahead with new players joining and limited time for preparation. But with each game, I believe we’ll grow stronger.”
Finally, addressing Gimenez’s anticipated emotional return to Rotterdam, Conceicao stated: “I haven’t spoken with him about it specifically but focused on his work on the pitch. On an emotional level, I’ll remind him that strong feelings are normal tomorrow. Once the referee blows the whistle, he must focus on doing his best for the team—that’s what matters most.”
