The Rossoneri coach after the last-minute victory against Lazio: “Pellegrini’s expulsion? I don’t see why we should have been the ones to throw the ball out.”
Stefano Pioli is enjoying the three points recovered, after a very challenging match against Lazio: “It was a nervous and foul-filled game,” said the Milan coach to Dazn. “In the first half, we lacked rhythm; we needed more speed and depth. It was a balanced game, with few chances. In the second half, we started better and capitalized on Lazio’s mistakes.”
Then, the coach commented on Cardinale’s words, expressing dissatisfaction with not being at the top of the table: “I approach the situation with great concentration on what we are doing to try to make this season positive. We are focused on doing our best. I have never commented on the words of the ownership; as such, the ownership has the right and the duty to make their own evaluations.”
What did Sarri say about Pellegrini’s expulsion?
“He told me ‘The ball was about to go out.’ But the referee didn’t whistle. Pulisic is a fair player; he made his move. I don’t see why we should have been the ones to throw the ball out; if that was their intention, they should have done it.”
Any tactical comment?
“We had prepared for our midfielders to move a bit more onto the wings to gain numerical superiority: we did it well on the right, but Loftus-Cheek was a bit too inside on the left. Then, in 10 vs 11, it was right to add another forward.”
You returned to not conceding goals away…
“Not conceding goals was important for us, having conceded too many in recent away games hurt us. We have the qualities to score; we have quality in the starters and in the substitutes. When those who come in are ready, the coach is satisfied. It’s thanks to the professionalism of these guys and the desire to do well.”
Was Leao okay?
“Yes, but we found him few times… Theo could have served him more in the first half, but he was always ready when needed.”
Is Europa League an objective?
“The goal is to confirm or improve the third place in the standings. We are going to need some great concentration for Slavia Prague, which is a good team. The Europa League is our goal.”
Do these victories further solidify the team?
“There has never been a lack of attitude, trust, or jealousy in the group: this is a great group. If we lose games, it won’t be due to a lack of cohesion or harmony in the group.”
How do you see Ibrahimovic?
“It’s strange now with Zlatan. He was my player and a teammate until recently. He is adapting with great passion and competence to the new role; we are glad he is close to us.”
PIOLI GETS ANGRY AND LEAVES THE PRESS CONFERENCE
Stefano Pioli’s press conference lasted very shortly. The Milan coach got up and left the room annoyed after a journalist’s question, labeling Pulisic’s gesture in Pellegrini’s expulsion as “unsportsmanlike.”
