Milan’s four-match winless run has set in doubts regarding the managerial prowess of Stefano Pioli ahead of the Rossoneri’s showdown against Paris Saint-Germain at San Siro. However, the experienced manager is still confident his team can turn things around following a poor start to the UEFA Champions League group stages.
Pioli spoke to Milan TV ahead of the mouthwatering clash at home in what is a must-win encounter for the Rossoneri.
“There is every reason to put in a strong performance from a mental point of view. Because we still haven’t managed to win in the Champions League after three games, we haven’t scored a goal, and we had a very good first half against a very strong team in the first leg. There are a thousand reasons to put in the best possible display and do it with a lot of determination and desire.”
Pioli expects a similar PSG as the first leg.
“For me it won’t change, the only variant they could have is in the possession phase: either they have three midfielders with Kylian Mbappé a little wider, or 4-4-2. Their defensive phase is the same aggressive one, with the desire to take away possession and easy plays. We will have to play forward when there is pressure. We are playing at home in front of our fans, who were certainly very disappointed with Saturday’s performance, but they can’t wait to encourage us to put in a great display tomorrow night.”
Finally, Pioli conceded that it remains in Milan’s hands to make it to the last 16.
“We can no longer just hope that the other results go well. We have to force something and tomorrow we have the occasion. I have never had and will never have any doubts about the group’s cohesion, participation, or sense of responsibility. It’ll be very difficult, but absolutely not impossible.”
🗣️ "We have a big chance tomorrow"
Coach Pioli ahead of #ACMPSG 🔴⚫#UCL #SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/f4LeVw9zrN— AC Milan (@acmilan) November 6, 2023
Milan, who will be boosted by the return of few players, are yet to score a goal in the Champions League this campaign, with two stalemates and a defeat doing them no favors. PSG are in impressive form, with the 3-0 win in the reverse fixture their first-ever win over the Rossoneri.
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