Conceicao: ‘Milan strong, but Porto want to win’

Sergio Conceicao is concerned that Milan have key players back in the side compared to their last Champions League meeting, but FC Porto are still ‘trying to win’ at San Siro.

It kicks off on Wednesday at 17.45 UK GMT after Porto won 1-0 on home soil, leaving the Rossoneri yet to get off the mark.

“We want to approach it the same way we always do, trying to win with our characteristics,” said Conceicao in his press conference.

“Milan have their history and quality, so regardless of who plays, they remain a strong opponent and we must try to beat them both on an individual and collective level.

“The atmosphere won’t be in our favour, it’s going to be very difficult, but our objective is to win.”

The Rossoneri are top of the Serie A table alongside Napoli with 10 wins out of 11, but rock bottom in the Champions League following three consecutive defeats.

“We are talking about a club that won seven Champions League titles and four Intercontinental Cups. They also play in Serie A, one of the best leagues in the world. They are very strong and their coach is one of the best in the world too,” assured former Parma, Lazio and Inter midfielder Conceicao.

“They didn’t deserve to lose against Atletico Madrid, while they also gave us a lot of problems. This will be a different match and we must expect them to step up a gear at home.”

Conceicao confirmed that Wendell is out of action, while Marcano and Uribe are ‘unlikely’ to be ready for tomorrow’s game.

Milan, meanwhile, have Brahim Diaz back for the first time since he contracted COVID-19, with Theo Hernandez and Franck Kessie also back after missing the trip to Oporto.

“Brahim Diaz is that player between the lines who can cause real problems to the opposition, while Rade Krunic has different characteristics in that role.

“Kessie is a reference point for the team, the most physical plyer in their midfield. Theo Hernandez is very attack-minded and works really well down that flank with Rafael Leao.”