Stefano Pioli says 'Europe is Milan's home', but warns his players that Cagliari 'have our same motivations.'
The Rossoneri face the Sardinians at the San Siro tomorrow and a win would allow the Rossoneri to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 2013.
Cagliari are involved in the race for survival and are five points clear of Benevento, who are third from the bottom.
Stefano Pioli says 'Europe is Milan's home', but warns his players that Cagliari 'have our same motivations.'
The Rossoneri face the Sardinians at the San Siro tomorrow and a win would allow the Rossoneri to qualify for the Champions League for the first time since 2013.
Cagliari are involved in the race for survival and are five points clear of Benevento, who are third from the bottom.
"We play at home, and it can only help us. We know it's an important game and that the opponents are tough," Pioli said at a press conference.
"We can end an exciting week in terms of results and performances, we had a good balance in the last two games, and we need to put the same characteristics on the pitch tomorrow.
"Europe is Milan's home. The fact that it's been missed for so long makes expectations grow. We are a top club and we know we have prepared for this game well. We need to be mentally strong, there aren't easy games," the coach continued.
"Cagliari will play an intelligent game, they have quality players, they have our same motivations, we must play better than our opponents and attack more than them, it won't be easy.
"The lads know we are living a crucial moment of the season, we'll need to be compact, especially when Cagliari will have the ball possession.
"Everybody has worked well this week, with the right determination and concentration. We are ready to fight against a strong opponent, we've worked on every detail. We haven't reached our targets yet. We must be very determined to achieve our goal," Pioli insisted.
"Our work continued even after defeats. We've always believed in our work and our qualities without losing our identity. When you have a solid base, it's easier to restart after losses."
Pioli spoke to the media before Sweden announced Zlatan Ibrahimovic would miss the Euros.
"I know he will undergo conservative treatment that will allow him to return 100 per cent fit. He looked more serene after the specialist consultation, but I don't know his situation ahead of the Euros," the coach claimed.
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