Stefano Pioli wants Milan to keep ‘riding the wave of enthusiasm’ and at the same time realise ‘what we did in 2020 no longer matters’ as they visit Benevento.
It kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 GMT and in their two previous meetings, the Rossoneri are yet to beat Le Streghe.
“We are up against a Benevento side that plays good football, is getting important results and is well-trained,” said Pioli in his press conference.
Stefano Pioli wants Milan to keep ‘riding the wave of enthusiasm’ and at the same time realise ‘what we did in 2020 no longer matters’ as they visit Benevento.
It kicks off on Sunday at 17.00 GMT and in their two previous meetings, the Rossoneri are yet to beat Le Streghe.
“We are up against a Benevento side that plays good football, is getting important results and is well-trained,” said Pioli in his press conference.
“Therefore, we need the right approach and to play in the Milan style. A year ago, we were starting to build, but the foundations are now there and we must add the motivation of wanting to improve game by game, facing every match with the intention of winning.
“Let’s not forget, 2020 was positive because everyone stepped up to reach their full potential. We start this year with great enthusiasm, confidence and trust in our own abilities. Where we have to improve is those situations where we are not at 100 per cent.”
Despite being decimated by injuries and bans, Milan fought to the last second to beat Lazio in a 3-2 thriller to close out 2020.
“Lazio are a very strong side and made it difficult for us, so overcoming these obstacles means we have grown in our mentality as well. The opponents know us more now, but we too can draw on more of our potential.
“We should ride the wave of this enthusiasm and I keep telling my players that they need to give more, because what we did in 2020 no longer matters. I ask the same of myself, we must try to be even stronger and then celebrate when we do give our best. It’s a fine line between victory and defeat.”
Franck Kessie is back from suspension and Simon Kjaer is back in training, but Pioli warns the injury list remains extensive, as well as suspended Theo Hernandez.
“Only Samu Castillejo will be called up, as the others aren’t ready yet to play at a match tempo. It’s difficult to make predictions with muscular injuries. The primary objective is to get the injured players back, because with a complete squad, I have everything I need for all our commitments. The club will be ready if there are any transfer opportunities.”