Milan coach Stefano Pioli maintained composure during the Europa League Round of 16 draw and urged his team to rebound with a victory against Atalanta.
The Rossoneri encountered a narrow 3-2 defeat against Rennes in the second leg of their Europa League knockout playoff tie on Thursday. However, this outcome did not alter their fate, as they advanced with a 5-3 aggregate win, securing a spot in the next round.
During the Europa League knockout draw in Nyon on Friday, Milan found themselves in a 50-50 scenario between Slavia Praha and Bayer Leverkusen. Ultimately, they were paired with the former, avoiding a tense encounter with Xabi Alonso’s high-flying side.
In a press conference via TMW, Pioli addressed the upcoming match against Atalanta and its significance for the league standings.
“Tomorrow’s match holds great importance for us to return to winning ways after the loss against Monza. It’s crucial as the teams beneath us continue to accumulate points. Over the last 10 days, Inter, Atalanta, and ourselves have been the most productive.”
Pioli responded to inquiries about Atalanta’s favorability in the Europa League.
“When the question was raised, we were still in the previous round. Now, like Atalanta, Leverkusen, Liverpool, and others, we too are competing for the title. Every team desires victory in the Europa League, and so do we.”
Regarding the squad’s condition, Pioli stated, “Following Europa League fixtures, we conduct press conferences before training, limiting the information available. Today, we’ll undergo more definitive training tests. Kalulu is progressing well and will complete the week’s training with the team. Tomori is also improving, although slightly behind Kalulu. We’re gradually regaining our full personnel, and Calabria is in good shape.”
Pioli elaborated on strategies to bolster the team’s defensive solidity, emphasizing, “The key lies not in expanding or tightening formations but in the intensity with which we execute defensive tactics.”
Commenting on the significance of players like Fikayo Tomori and Pierre Kalulu, Pioli remarked, “They possess a deep understanding of our defensive principles, blending speed, aggression, and defensive proficiency. With numerous fixtures ahead, having an extensive squad is paramount.”
Reflecting on the Europa League draw, Pioli admitted, “I remained unfazed during the final moments of the draw, as I wasn’t overly concerned about facing Bayer Leverkusen. Our fate in the Europa League hinges on our performance.”
Pioli acknowledged the scheduling disparity due to Thursday matches, stating, “Thursday fixtures contrast with the Champions League matches held on Tuesdays or Wednesdays. In tomorrow’s match, Atalanta enjoyed a week of rest. It holds significant implications for our league position.”
Assessing Atalanta’s strengths, Pioli noted, “Atalanta’s prowess extends beyond counterattacks. We must maintain compactness and aggression while leveraging our attackers’ prowess to secure goals.”
Regarding squad rotations against Monza, Pioli defended his choices, asserting, “Our objective is to excel in both competitions. The lineup adjustments against Monza were deemed appropriate based on player conditions. Tomorrow, I’ll field the strongest lineup contingent on player form.”
Pioli concluded by addressing the workload and lauding goalkeeper Mike Maignan’s performance, stating, “The workload management remains under discussion, and decisions are made in appropriate forums. Maignan continues to exhibit exceptional skills and professionalism, striving for excellence.”
Regarding Samuel Chukwueze’s performance, Pioli emphasized, “Chukwueze must emulate Pulisic’s multifaceted contributions, including goal-scoring, assisting, and defensive diligence.”
In preparation for the Atalanta clash, Pioli emphasized the importance of strength in one-on-one battles, quoting Guardiola’s analogy, “Facing Atalanta is akin to visiting the dentist – challenging but necessary.”