Stefano Pioli said Scudetto holders Milan ‘can’t wait to get started’ in the new Serie A season, even if they have a ‘competitive’ opening few weeks.
The full 2022-23 fixture list was drawn up today and the Rossoneri will not be eased into the tournament as reigning champions.
In the opening nine rounds, they will go head-to-head with Atalanta, Inter, Napoli and Juventus.
“It’s a competitive start to the season, but as we know all too well, the fixture list really only depends on our performances,” Pioli told the official Milan website.
“It doesn’t matter who we face, what makes the difference is the level of belief we have and the desire to keep challenging ourselves, after an exhilarating season with the Scudetto victory and love that was shown from all corners of the earth.
“The objective is to keep growing. We can’t wait to get started!’
Milan will be in the Derby della Madonnina with city rivals Inter on September 4 and February 5.
It is worth noting that Pioli’s comments reflect some of the results seen last season, where the Rossoneri dropped points mainly against the smaller clubs like Spezia and Salernitana, but had a relatively good record with the other big teams.
#SerieATIM 2022/23 ⚽
🗓️ The full fixture list
🗓️ Il calendario completo #SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/Tx7dOJchim
— AC Milan (@acmilan) June 24, 2022
“Relatively” good record?
Big season needed from some players this time around. Brahim needs to improve rapidly or face being replaced. Rebic needs to stay injury free and hungry to be in the starting line up.
With this squad going in to defend serie a and play champions league in a season with the world cup looming… good luck.