A.D. Furlani, in the presence of Ibra, Moncada, and D’Ottavio, presented the coach with a medal and a jersey signed by the players: ‘Proud also that he has reached the same number of appearances as Sacchi.’
Knowing him, he would gladly trade personal milestones for extending the excellent streak that has characterized Milan’s last month and a half. But it can’t be said that Stefano Pioli, in these four and a half years at Milanello, hasn’t made a mark on his football résumé as well. Against Napoli, he reached the sixth spot alongside Sacchi for the most appearances by coaches (220) in AC Milan’s history. Today at Milanello, he was honored for achieving his 100th victory in Serie A.
It was a surprise award, arranged by the club to emphasize the importance of the milestone. Pioli didn’t expect it because Milan usually rewards round figures in terms of appearances (as it had done for the coach after 200 matches), so the initiative was particularly appreciated. A medal was awarded to Pioli by CEO Giorgio Furlani, while the team gifted the coach a special jersey signed by all the players and staff.
The CEO congratulated the coach on behalf of the club and recalled how this award came just days after Pioli reached the 200-match mark, equaling Sacchi. “This milestone is particularly significant,” said Furlani, “because Sacchi was a reference coach for me when I was young, and now that you’ve reached him, it’s a source of great pride.”
Pioli then addressed the team: “This milestone wouldn’t have been possible without you. So, this medal is for you. Without your mentality and sense of belonging, I wouldn’t have achieved it. But now, we must look ahead, so I wish both you and me another hundred victories.” Besides Furlani, Ibrahimovic, Moncada, and D’Ottavio were also present at Milanello.
