Stefano Pioli feels ‘the only way’ Roma could trouble Milan was if they went to down to 10 men and is already looking forward to the ‘great rivalry’ of the derby with Inter.
The Rossoneri continued their perfect start to the season with a third win out of three, even though there was a tense finale at the Stadio Olimpico.
They seemed to be in control with an Olivier Giroud penalty for the early Rui Patricio foul on Ruben Loftus-Cheek and an acrobatic Rafael Leao volley with his back to goal.
However, Fikayo Tomori received his second yellow card for persistent fouling on Andrea Belotti and this allowed Roma back into the game.
Leonardo Spinazzola’s deflected effort off Pierre Kalulu made it 2-1 and the 10 men held on for the victory.
“The result is important, but the performance is also very satisfying,” Pioli told DAZN.
“I think the only way we could let our opponents back into the game was to go down to 10 men and that is what happened, but we still suffered under pressure with generosity and determination.
“We are satisfied with what we are doing, but also aware of what we need to improve.”
It was looking eerily similar to last season’s 2-2 draw with Roma, which had also been largely dominated by the Rossoneri in January until conceding twice late on.
“I didn’t think of that game, to be honest. I liked the way we started the match, held possession, controlled the game and allowed very little to our opponents. It is just the beginning, but we see some good signs.”
Davide Calabria is playing an unusual role, cutting inside from right-back and followed by Houssem Aouar, which creates gaps for Loftus-Cheek to run forward.
“We want to build out from the back and are trying to find the right movements to vary those situations. I think today we accelerated at the right time and there was a little tension towards the end, but we still only conceded with a long-range shot that took a deflection. That shows the team was solid and focused.”
Rafael Leao broke his duck with a remarkable volley, adding to the two assists he had already this season.
“Leao has remarkable capabilities in front of goal, but he also needs to do what he did tonight, which is being a reference point for his teammates. He made some great runs tonight, his movement was constant, varying the runs, finally he was ready for the cross at the back post, because at times he forgets to make that run.
“Rafa’s attitude, desire and growth in mentality is evident for me working with him every day. He is very happy and highly-motivated.”
Milan made a transfer deadline day signing, securing Luka Jovic from Fiorentina for free, only after trying and failing for players like Medhi Taremi, Rafa Mir and Patson Daka.
“He was part of the list of strikers we were looking for. He was coming off a difficult season, but he has talent, quality and is motivated, so I am sure he will help us out. We were looking for another centre-forward because we are very ambitious and want to play many games this term, so need options to rotate and keep everyone fresh.”
The break for international duty is followed by the Derby della Madonnina against Inter, even if Tomori will be suspended.
“All games are tough tests to be overcome and this is no different. Inter are a quality opponent, we know that, but we have our own identity and way of approaching the game. There is great rivalry, great ambition, we both want to win that second star, so we will be ready.”
You gave them a way back into the game by first starting Tomori and then letting him stay on after it was obvious he’d get sent off. Fool.
No worries Pioli, your AC Penalty will get trashed in two weeks.
Needless! Have your say but…..cut off the insult Better we engaged in cultured argument No manager set his team up for cards They are part of the game.The team only be careful as we go forward.So far so good! Forza Milan ..Forza Pioli…