AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli recalled some of the emotions he experienced in winning the Scudetto last season and also gave his vision for 2023.
Pioli was the main character in the new show ‘The Kings of Football’ on SportMediaset, alongside fellow Inter Milan forward Simone Inzaghi and Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti.
He lingered on a range of topics, including the end of last season, which culminated in winning the Scudetto for the first time in 11 years, and what lies ahead, including the fight to retain the championship title and a draw with Spurs. The Champions League best 16.
His comments were relayed in full by MilanNews. I’ve translated them below, starting with how the episode began when the crown was placed on Peoli’s head.
“I’m not used to having something on my head!” he started.
How was 2022 for Milan?
“When you invest in a young player, you expect to win a few more over time, so we got there ahead of time with this prestigious win. It’s been a very important year for us and it’s clear that we’ve had a lot of satisfaction.”
Has Pioli changed?
“For sure I have changed. I want my players to see how I coach now. I think it was more of a negative experience than anything else.
“I think we have improved in a lot of ways, especially in the two or three things that I consider to be the most important in my job. is also a better communication with the outside world of my career.”
Revisiting Giroud’s run to the touchline after goal against Inter…
“Looking back, I felt a little like Masone when he did that run. I wanted to improve my position because I was finishing at .
“To reach the second half in the Derby is seven points away and potentially ten. Winning like this was important for the season.”
How would you rate Ancelotti?
“Carlo is top of the line in everything. He has won all the leagues, he has trained and developed the players. He has style, class, common sense and intelligence. For me he is a coach at the highest level. and a reference point.”
How much motivation can you challenge for the contest match?
“It’s been a long time since Milan made it to the last 16, and with a great team under the guidance of a great coach, it’s sure to be a very important and exciting meeting. .”
Can you confirm that you didn’t touch a cigar for a month after Giroud’s goal?
“Of course it is, and I like smoking two cigarettes a day, and it was a struggle because it’s a relaxing moment. But it was worth it…I’ll keep coming back.”
Simone Inzaghi has succeeded you in Lazio…
“When I could, I attended a bit of his training sessions, and when he was able, I attended mine. Obviously, we met as enemies many times, and we treated each other with great respect.”
What inspired the team to race the Scudetto?
“We were always ‘indifferent’ to what they said outside. I will tell you that we relied on the motivation of the players. They gave us a high win rate and we must be grateful they didn’t believe us as they always gave us something extra to achieve this great goal. ”
Did Stephen Chan compliment you?
“Yes, it’s true what he did. He always had the right attitude. He said to me, ‘Congratulations Mr.
Pioli receives a gold disc for “Pioli Is Burning”…
“It’s hard to explain. Especially when our fans bring it to San Siro, I experience very strong emotions and, to be honest, I have to stay calm and control my reaction.” Starting with the players, it’s even more beautiful when you see them rejoicing when the fans sing.
“It’s what binds us, it’s not just mine. The song is it, it’s ours. I’m happy to tell you it was everywhere in the summer. All weddings.” , at every party, they sent me a video and I was so happy…I really appreciate it.It makes no sense to pretend nothing happened.”
🎶 Pioli is on fire! 🔥pic.twitter.com/5O7ScPGpY1
— SempreMilan 🏆 (@SempreMilanCom) November 3, 2022
Where were you against Bologna Inter?
“I was eating with Maldini and Massala because we have habits and schedules. I unplugged the phone and didn’t even know the result.It’s true that it was an important episode in our favor, but we were the only ones to do it with 86 points to win the title. It is equally true.”
Do you have any regrets?
“No, I think I did it all. I definitely enjoyed the moment that day and the next. I was happy with all the fans who gave me.
“When I got back to Milan at 2am, I had a deeper taste of winning the Scudetto, but I was smoking a cigar with my son and I saw people walking by with flags. I understand what you can do.”
How much did you miss your father?
“A lot. I always felt protected and safe by him, so he was the first person I thought of. That’s so important, not only as a child, but as an adult.” has always been with me and has shown a positive attitude that she deserves to experience this wonderful satisfaction with us.”
What did your mother say after the Scudetto?
“She was very happy. Mom can’t show her emotions. Criticism is good for her, but I know she’s very proud. I have a family and a group of friends. They have really followed me throughout my career, they have had positive and negative experiences too.The satisfaction, the joy of winning such a prestigious and important victory is possible. I think it will be even bigger.”
What is the profession of the Pioli family?
“My father worked a lot. We were three brothers and my mother worked. When they got married, he told her to stay home with the children. If I wasn’t a player, I would have been a postman, or rather what I did after being a player.I think it’s a satisfying job. ”
Your son is now working on your staff…
“He was a prepared entrance, not a direct reveal. Those who knew him appreciated his professional qualities. That’s what matters. He will A man who is strong and paving the way for the future.”
Do you believe in the Scudetto?
“We have to think that we can think of winning the Scudetto. It is clear that if Napoli continue this pace, they will reach 100 points and deserve the championship.”
Want to wear the crown again in 2023?
“Let’s hope so. Indeed, we are here with great ambitions. We are not going to give up. We will try to get a lot of points and bring this beautiful ornament back to our heads.” .”
