PIOLI: "WE NOW NEED ACTION"

Our first match of 2020 is almost upon us, with the Rossoneri desperate to start the New Year with a win. Sampdoria will be AC Milan’s opponents on Monday 6 January, with the matchday 18 encounter in Serie A TIM kicking off at 15:00 CET. Following his squad announcement, Coach Pioli today took part in his pre-match press conference at Milanello - one that was streamed live on the AC Milan Official App, Facebook and Milan TV:

WORKING TOWARDS AC MILAN V SAMPDORIA
“We’ve picked up too few points, especially at home. It’s now time to change direction. We have 21 matches to turn things around. We must do better, starting with this key match against Sampdoria. We now need action rather than words. I expect to see real determination and desire from the team. We must play as a team worthy of Milan, getting back to winning ways in front of our fans. I will choose the best formation consisting of players that give me the most confidence.”

REDEMPTION
“The result in Bergamo still hurts - that was the only really poor performance since I’ve arrived. The club intervened in an important way after the awful result. Boban was right: it will remain an indelible stain on our season. We’re aware that it’s been a poor campaign so far. We’re aware of the problems and our inadequate position in the league. We’re all responsible but also determined to improve. We’re working on this and we must and want to start again. I’ve seen a team with the right mentality over the past few days but the difference is made out on the pitch.”

IBRAHIMOVIĆ
“He’s presented himself well in terms of both his comments and attitude. He’s demonstrated real passion, desire and determination right away. He’s a fantastic professional and even today he was the last to leave Milanello. It’s great to have him here and I’m really pleased with him. He’s attentive and curious - he’s finding his space but it’ll take time. He’s changed the environment and it’ll be a boost for everyone. He’s not just any player, however, he’s value-added rather than our saviour. He’s been called up and he’s doing well, even if he only played his last official game over two months ago. However, he’s available and can play.”

NEW SCENARIOS
“Following Ibra’s arrival, something may change tactically, but everything’s still in the evolution phase. Before this, we need to play and understand what’s going on out on the pitch. We have characteristics and roles that can change, helping us to remain an effective team. Zlatan can play alongside Piątek, everyone can play together. Our objective is to create more chances and score more goals.”

TRANSFER MARKET
“We’re looking to add a defender to the squad. We have clear ideas about situations that can improve the team over the course of the January transfer window, the Club will remain alert and vigilant.”

The official PUMA match kits for the 2019/20 season are available in the AC Milan Online Store!