Milan, Pioli: “Now we are almost at Inter’s level. Theo is a leader”

Pioli started 2024 with a smile like this. The one of those who are still undefeated in the championship. Milan’s last defeat dates back to 9 December, then seven wins and two draws. The success against Napoli is one of those heavy ones, of teamwork, of determination and clarity, with the final thrill – a pole truck from Simic – and two old friends rediscovered: Leao finishes, Theo scores and laughs. Now Juventus are just one point away. “In the last month and a half we are almost at Inter’s level – said Pioli at the end of the match -. They are playing an incredible championship. Let’s see what we can do”.

calabria out

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Pioli’s next objectives are two: Rennes in the Europa League and Monza in the championship. Third place is a certainty, for now. “We have to be very good at continuing like this. It’s good to have won a match like this, we needed to work in the defensive phase and be more careful on some aspects.” Accidents chapter. The most delicate case concerns Calabria, who came out due to a muscle problem: “Bennacer was a bit tired, he was in the Africa Cup of Nations and needed to rest, while Calabria had some adductor discomfort. We’ll have to evaluate it, let’s see. Now Our focus is on the match against Rennes, we will have to be competitive and gain an advantage in view of the return match.” Before beating Napoli, Pioli saw his next opponents, victorious against Le Havre: “A difficult challenge. Today they worked harder. He has players of quality and skill, they are doing well in every aspect”.

theo super

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The clean sheet is essential. Especially after the last three matches in which the Rossoneri have conceded seven goals: “We have had several matches in recent weeks, we must be less inclined to attack straight away. It was a balanced and orderly AC Milan, we must have more confidence and more strength. Our goal is to do well.” The last note is on Theo and Leao, protagonists of the winning goal: “With the quality and pace they have, they are fundamental. On the flank they feel each other, they understand each other, they even kiss each other. In fact, I kiss them too when they score goals.” Pioli smiles. He then praises the Frenchman: “Theo played some games as a central defender out of necessity. Last year he had difficulty getting over the disappointment of losing the World Cup, but this year I found him much more positive and proactive. He is becoming a leader. Then he doesn’t talk much, but he is. The matches in which he played as a central defender made him understand how attentive and aggressive he can be.”