Milan manager Stefano Pioli admits that the title race is probably over ahead of their match with Lazio at the Stadio Olimpico. The Rossoneri travel to the capital a full 16 points behind league leaders Inter, aiming to consolidate a top four finish. Speaking in his pre-match presser, Pioli talked through the match and offered some updates on the status of his squad:
How has this week been?
“We aim to replicate Sunday’s performance but with a different outcome.”
Did you speak with Leao after his stellar performance against Atalanta?
“He told me he felt good. I told him to always feel good.”
What kind of match are you expecting tomorrow?
“Lazio is a quality team coming off a defeat. They’ll be motivated, playing well, but we can make it difficult for them by playing with intensity.”
Is the title race over?
“For the top spot, I believe so. Inter is having an incredible season, overcoming a tough schedule. Their clear path forward indicates it’s almost over.”
Inter could win the title in the derby…
“It’s premature to focus on distant possibilities. There’s still a long way to go until April 21st. We must concentrate solely on tomorrow. We’ll assess everything during the break.”
Why didn’t you win against Atalanta?
“We’ve analyzed both the positives and why we couldn’t secure a win. Why didn’t we win? We couldn’t score one more goal despite having the chances.”
Champions League qualification?
“Allegri mentioned we need 70 points. The road ahead is still long.”
Are you studying Slavia Prague?
“Yes, but we’re solely focused on Lazio. There’s no need to rest anyone for Thursday; there’s still time. We’ve recovered many players. We’re entering a period with a lot of games, and we need everyone.”
You’re often criticized on social media even when the team plays well…
“I’m not on social media. Criticisms exist and will always be there. We still have significant objectives ahead, and I’m focused on those. I’m happy and proud to coach here; I believe we’re doing an excellent job.”
How do you compare this year’s Inter?
“Napoli last year had incredible stats, and Inter is doing the same. They’ve only lost once, having an outstanding season.”
Is there an officiating issue for Milan?
“No, referees are trying their best. There’s no bias against us. Some incidents are fortunate, others not.”
Do you need to perform better away from home?
“Yes, we need to improve our away record. We always aim to dictate the game, and we’ll do the same tomorrow against a quality opponent. It’ll require attention and consistency.”
Spalletti praised you…
“I’ve always agreed with him (smiles). It’s always nice to receive compliments from other coaches. We spoke a couple of weeks ago about training schedules, but he couldn’t make it. He’s a colleague who deserves to coach the national team.”
Is Florenzi putting you in a dilemma?
“Calabria is doing well. Florenzi’s performances are important. Whoever plays will do well, and those who don’t will be ready to step in.”
How’s Reijnders?
“He’s a great player in my opinion. Against Atalanta, I chose Adli for his defensive positioning. Reijnders didn’t train yesterday due to the birth of his child. I congratulate him.”
Has Leao matured off the pitch?
“His growth in relationships within the team and his work is exponential. Players aged 18-19 are expected to do a lot, and you need to mature quickly, but everyone has their own path.”
Did you remind the team of last year’s 4-0 win?
“There’s no need to; those memories remain ingrained.”
Is Tomori called up?
“Yes.”
Fans complain about gaps in midfield and the alleged 5-0-5 formation…
“You attack and defend with eleven players. Of course, it might look like a 5-0-5, a 7-0-3, or a 6-0-4. It’s still wrong. It’s like saying ‘I don’t know how to coach.’ So… (laughs).”
What kind of match will it be tomorrow?
“Both teams will try to dictate the game with different principles. We have the quality to make them run and try to create numerical superiority in certain areas of the field.”
Who will mark Luis Alberto tomorrow?
“Against Lazio, we’ll face a strong and quality midfield. The duels in that area will be crucial.”
Playing well but not winning like against Atalanta. What’s the solution?
“We need to highlight the positives and understand why we didn’t win. By playing like that, we have more chances of winning.”
And thus concludes Stefano Pioli’s press conference before the Lazio match.