Stefano Pioli insists Milan need to prove their credentials by ‘getting back on our feet’ against Empoli after the 22-round Serie A unbeaten run was ended. ‘I have to take it one game at a time.’
It kicks off at the Stadio Castellani at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens on the LIVEBLOG.
“We don’t want to cancel out the Napoli game, but resume with a positive performance and result,” Pioli told Sky Sport Italia.
“We had not lost for a long time, so this is our opportunity to prove that great teams can slip up, but in any case get back on their feet straight away.”
Charles De Ketelaere is again in the starting XI and the 21-year-old is adapting to Serie A very well.
“Charles is a very intelligent lad, hard-working, and I think being calm is the most important thing for a professional. He is determined and calm. We know it will take time to fully settle, but I am very satisfied with his performances and attitude.”
Rafael Leao returns from suspension and he was sorely missed in the 2-1 defeat to Napoli.
“Clearly Rafa has remarkable attacking potential and gives us options that we did not have against Napoli, though we didn’t convert the chances that we created.
“Empoli are a technically-gifted side, well-prepared and play at a high tempo, so starting with the right attitude will be very important this evening.”
Milan are one of the Serie A sides who will face 12 games in 44 days building up to the 2022 World Cup break. How does Pioli strategize in this kind of schedule?
“I have to take it one game at a time, because we cannot measure out our energy, it’s not how we think or approach our football. We just have to give our all, concentrate and try to win every match.”