Stefano Pioli believes any team would have been difficult to face in the Champions League, but wants ‘Milan are Milan’. The Rossoneri coach was speaking in his pre-match press conference (as quoted by MilanPress) ahead of their match against Udinese today and was inevitably asked about the upcoming European matches against Napoli, as well as the criticism aimed at Rafael Leao, who has looked out of sorts recently:
“During the draw we were training. Any opponent would have been difficult. We are in the quarters, they are all strong teams. We want to progress into the next round. Napoli are strong, they are dominating in the league, but the Champions League is the Champions League, just as Milan is Milan.”
“Ibrahimovic? He is fine. When we made the list he was not able to play, so he is calm. Ibra is Ibra, he wants to play all the games and help his teammates. He’s fine, he doesn’t have 90′ minutes in his legs yet. We will see what choices I will make, Rebic or Origi can also play.”
“Udinese? We know our opponents, they are a physical team, they play fast on the attack. We will need great determination. The team is doing well. I have to always put the best team on the field. We have to win.”
“Leao? We don’t care what they say outside Milanello. I advise Leao to stay close to those who love him, as it happens here in Milanello. He is not depressed, but he is determined. Goals are expected of him, but even when he doesn’t score he makes important plays for the team.”
“The Primavera team? I congratulated Abate and the team for the achievement. There are a lot of interesting kids that we keep an eye on.”
