Coach Stefano Pioli gave some indications about the XI before the Porto game: “We will face a solid opponent with pacey players and a capable coach. It will be a high-quality contest, with all the difficulties that entail. Every match has a different preparation. We studied them accurately and put together our game clan. We hope it will bear fruits.”
“Zlatan Ibrahimovic is feeling better, but he is not in condition to start yet. He played 15 minutes in the past game, and he can not handle much more. Ante Rebic is out. Rade Krunic might get the nod, and he is competing with Daniel Maldini. The bad thing about injuries is that it takes a while to be 100 percent, but they need minutes. Rafael Leao is more aware of his skills now, and he has more consistency. He has incredible potential.”
Pioli singled out Luis Diaz: “Porto are a complete team in every area. He impressed me for his quality and speed. Our defense will have to pay close attention to him.”
“Milan are still missing a few things to be part of the elite. We are on the right pathway, but there are a few steps to clear. The squad is very motivated, and we will have the opportunity to gain an important result tomorrow.”
Pioli was asked about where Rossoneri should improve in Champions League: “We have to remain focused and lucid in every situation. The previous adversaries made us pay for every mistake. We will have to be dynamic with the ball and attentive without it.”
Pioli concluded: “I lean a lot on my players, which is normal, and I try to coach them the best way I can. But they are the ones that make the difference. There is a constant exchange.”