Stefano Pioli admits that struggles in front of goal have been Milan‘s ‘biggest problem’ this season and insists the Rossoneri have learned lessons from their Champions League campaign.

The Diavoli return to the pitch on Saturday against Sampdoria at San Siro. Pioli’s men will be looking to bounce back after a disappointing elimination from the Champions League semis at the hands of city rivals Inter.

Milan lost 3-0 on aggregate and overall, they have failed to find the net in each of the latest four meetings against the Nerazzurri.

“We are behind where we would like to be. We only have to think about tomorrow. Luckily the season didn’t end last Tuesday, we have to show who we are,” Pioli said at a pre-match press conference on Friday, as quoted by Milannews.

“It’s fortunate that we can get back to playing tomorrow. We suffered a major disappointment not reaching the final. It took us a little time, but now we’re prepared to do well tomorrow by reacting like the great team we are.”

Milan sit fifth in the Serie A table with 61 points, four below fourth-placed Lazio, so tomorrow’s game against an already relegated Sampdoria is a must-win.

“The Champions League is the objective, it is too important to qualify and all judgments must be suspended until the championship ends,” said the Rossoneri boss.

When asked about what his side have learned in this season’s Champions League, Pioli replied: “We started with 32 [teams] and finished in the top four. I hope there are more opportunities like this in my career.

“I talk a lot with my players, we’ve been on a journey with both successes and disappointments. Of course, it was worth it. We learned things that we weren’t able to last year. It’s all experiences that will help us grow in the future.”

He went on to say that the first halves of their Champions League games against Inter were decisive. “In the first leg, we conceded two goals, in the return leg, we were not able to score,” he noted.

Struggles in front of goals are also seen as Milan’s biggest problem this season.

“It’s our most important defect: due to the amount of work, we have often produced too little,” admitted the 57-year-old.

“Technical errors or decision making, we need to do better, especially when the defences are shut off. We’ve been lacking that extra level to determine the final result. Everyone gives their best, some with better performances than others. It’s part of a very long and demanding season in which we haven’t lived up to our capabilities.

“Playing for Milan, with determination and spirit has always separated us from our opposition. We’ve wiped away the tears we had. Now it will take determination to finish the season well.

“Samp are playing with great dignity and pride, they’re a difficult opponent,” he continued.

“I’m not putting my hands up, but they’re playing good football and have little to lose. If they play with passion and pride, what must we do?”

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