The words of the Rossoneri coach ahead of the crucial game against Dortmund: “Attention and concentration are our main weapons to win the match.”
“Against Dortmund, Milan has only one option. Pioli knows that in order to still hope for qualification to the Champions League round of 16, overcoming a tough group that includes PSG and Newcastle, they must defeat Borussia at San Siro despite the ongoing crisis, important absences, and the high-quality opponent. “This could be the turning point in the competition‘ – Pioli commented on the eve of the match.
THE PRESS CONFERENCE
Will it be important to play as a team tomorrow?
It’s a very important match, almost a turning point for the season. We know Dortmund well; they are strong and will create difficulties, but they can handle face them. We need to be careful and focused for 90 minutes.
What San Siro do you expect tomorrow?
When we went to Dortmund, we were prepared for the Yellow Wall, while Borussia doesn’t know what the atmosphere that is awaiting them at San Siro. The fans helped us reach great the victory against PSG, and they will do the same tomorroq.
Is it possible to see a return to the 4-2-3-1 formation?
We change our style of play in the two phases of the game. Borussia is a very versatile team that builds the game differently. We’ll need to be smart in going after them without being caught off guard, trying to find the right way to surprise them in attack.
Do you need to play a match like the one against PSG or do you need something more?
That game should be taken as a reference because we started well but went behind. Despite this, we reacted, stayed in the game, and held on until the end. The mental aspect makes a difference; with that character and determination, we have the chance to win as we did against PSG.
How will the overall judgment change with the match against Borussia?
The goal is to be competitive everywhere, and progressing in the Champions League is very important.
How is the team in these days?
The team is focused and prepared. The approach to work was made aware of the importance of the challenge but with the usual serenity.
How is Loftus-Cheek?
The cameo against Fiorentina was planned. He’s not at 100%, but he wasn’t even before PSG.
How is Hernandez; do you see him improving?
Theo can always make a difference with the qualities he has. He has been criticized, as happens to everyone; it’s normal when you don’t win with Milan. From a tactical point of view, he can do well both by staying wide and by coming in from the center. We need to occupy the right areas of the field, and then it’s up to the players to collaborate as best as possible.
What Milan do you want to see tomorrow?
I want a team that puts everything it has on the field. What does Milan need to do tomorrow to win?
Energy and the desire to overcome a difficult obstacle. We all need to put in a little extra to have a great game.”
