Milan manager Paulo Fonseca spoke to the press ahead of the team’s match against Lazio at the Olimpico, addressing various topics including recent performances, tactical approaches, and squad dynamics.
On improving after the Parma match:
“Yes. We are aware that we didn’t start well, but there’s a very positive thing: we all agree, we are united. We want to find solutions and that’s what we did this week. Working together makes it easier. We had a good week of work. I think we understood what’s really important to improve. We are united, we worked well, I expect to see a different Milan tomorrow.”
On tactical vs technical issues:
“We talked after the match: we all think the same. We were a bit sad the first day after Parma, then we reacted and it’s been a very positive week. I don’t like depression or looking for excuses: I’m here to find solutions. We’ll see if tomorrow was the right path.”
On Abraham’s availability:
“I was surprised at lunch because Danso had arrived in Rome and now he’s not anymore. So until it’s official I won’t talk about Abraham. Tomorrow there’s no Morata, no Jovic because he has lower back pain, we have Okafor and Camarda.”
On the Champions League draw:
“I have a lot to think about before the Champions League… I like the format, first of all, because there are more matches between big teams. For us a very balanced draw, there are Real Madrid, Liverpool and Bayer who are very strong. Balanced draw like this format is.”
On Theo and Leao:
“It’s easy to understand what we need to improve. I never talk about players individually, I always talk about us and the team. Individually, I talk to my players, but privately, never publicly. Obviously I talked to Theo, to Rafa and the other players.”
On potentially changing his tactics:
“Yes. I say this because we’ve already done it. If we had never done it, I could have doubts. But in pre-season we were close to what I want. I have the same confidence as the first press conference. I have the same confidence in saying that these two games won’t change the team I want.”
On the 4-3-3 formation:
“I don’t want to discuss this. I respect your opinion.”
On Loftus-Cheek:
“I’m satisfied with Loftus-Cheek. His role is important.”
