PIOLI: "WE KNOW THE PITFALLS OF THIS GAME"

From Verona to San Siro, the Serie A is back: this time without the midweek Champions League games. The Rossoneri have had more days to recover and work towards the Monza game, matchday 11 on Saturday 22 October at 18:00 CEST. On the eve of the match, Coach Pioli's press conference took place at Milanello, and it was broadcast live on Milan TV, YouTube and Twitch.

BIRTHDAY PRESENT
"My only wish is for the team to play at the level they know how to. The Monza match marks the beginning of a period that will see us play seven games in 22 days, and starting well would be important."

THE MATCH AGAINST MONZA
"It’ll be a special evening with a somewhat romantic aspect: Berlusconi and Galliani made history with AC Milan. It’ll be a difficult game for us, and I must congratulate Palladino on his work and the identity he’s given his team. Monza defend well and in an aggressive fashion, and they pass the ball just as well. They’ve only conceded once since the new coach came in and have quality up front, too."

THIS WEEK AT MILANELLO
"Theo experienced something unpleasant and, given that we’re a family, it affected us, too. He’s out on the pitch and working, and we’ll help him. We’re disappointed for Mike; he’s an important player and was doing everything possible to return. I think he’ll be out until at least January. As for Kjær and De Ketelaere, they are available and we’ll see when we use them."

CHANGES
"There are aspects I’m taking into account: we have seven matches in 22 days coming up, and no one will play every single one. Many of the lads have played a lot, but I have a group of strong players. I’ll assess things and, in the process, not focus on Tuesday’s game but the upcoming period in general. Origi and Rebić could start; I’ll decide tomorrow morning."

THE LEAGUE AND THE TABLE
"We need to push and only focus on ourselves rather than our opponents. We’ve won three consecutive matches, and now we need to try to press on because we need a lot of points. In Serie A, no team can be underestimated, and you can make your calendar an easier one through the standard you play at and the quality you show."

THE DISTRACTION OF ZAGREB
"I’m not worried about this because I’ve seen how focused the players are. We’ve only talked about tomorrow’s game, and we’re aware of the pitfalls. The team have never been lacking in terms of determination and mentality, and we need to try and kill off matches early because opponents can cause problems."

INDIVIDUALS
"As time goes on, the more integrated our new players are becoming. They’re all very capable guys and will prove their worth when they get an opportunity. I was pleased with Adli’s debut; it was difficult to find space, and this experience will have served him well. Tătă is an experienced and mature goalkeeper; he’s highly respected by his teammates and will also make a contribution to our build-up play. Divock is a complete centre-forward, just like Olivier: they know how to dictate play and attack in behind. Origi is both a physical and technical player, and he’s also two-footed. There’s no faulting Matteo Gabbia in terms of his professionalism, willingness and the way he conducts himself; I’m satisfied with his performances."

IBRA’S SUPPORT
"I’m yet to watch the Ibra-cam but what he does is never trivial: he’s always very focused and knows how we prepare matches. He helps his teammates and is someone I can talk to. He’s recovering well, but it’s a long process and it’ll be a while before we see him back on the pitch."

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