Stefano Pioli expressed his confidence ahead of Milan’s Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund, noting how his team need to ‘take advantage of every little opportunity’.
The Rossoneri got off to a tough start in their European campaign, being held to a goalless draw by Eddie Howe’s Newcastle United. The other game in Group F saw Paris Saint-Germain beat Dortmund.
Apart from their disappointment against Newcastle and collapse against Inter in the derby, Milan have looked strong this season and sit tied at the top of the Serie A table with their intercity rivals on 18 points.
Speaking to Sport Mediaset via TMW, Pioli first discussed the strengths of Borussia Dortmund.
“Borussia Dortmund are a top-level opponent who haven’t lost at home in the Champions League for two years. They have quality offensive players, they are a close-knit team. They are a Champions League opponent.
“The important thing is that the team have a mentality and a style of the game. I obviously hope to always have everyone available, but the important thing is that the team are a team. We are here to play our game.”
He admitted he took some pointers from Pulisic, who spent time with Dortmund before making the move to Chelsea.
“We talked, it will be his 50th appearance in the Champions League. We talked about his past here, he explained to us what we will find and also gave us some useful advice.”
The Rossoneri coach spoke highly about star winger Rafael Leao.
“He is constantly growing, he is completing himself. All the matches for him are an opportunity to show his qualities.”
Finally, Pioli underlined the kind of match he wants Milan to play against Dortmund.
“They will try to start strong, they have five quality offensive players. Two teams will face each other who will try to put the opposing defences in difficulty.
“We will have to be good at being united, attacking and defending all together. We will have to be concrete and take advantage of every little opportunity.”
Dortmund currently sit fourth in the Bundesliga table after six matches, winning four times and drawing twice.