Stefano Pioli expects a strong response from his Milan side in tomorrow’s clash against Monza and gave his thoughts on the busy schedule.

The Rossoneri edged out a tough 2-1 win over Hellas Verona last weekend and will be hoping to follow that up with another win against Monza tomorrow, desperate to pick up as many points as possible as they look to close the gap with league leaders Napoli, who sit three points ahead.

Speaking in a press conference, Pioli first discussed how it feels to be facing off against Monza pair Silvio Berlusconi and Adriano Galliani.

“There is also a slightly romantic aspect. Berlusconi and Galliani have made Milan’s history. We, however, have to leave these things aside. I have to pay compliments to Palladino because he immediately gave Monza an identity.”

He provided an update on the health of his squad, including stars Theo Hernandez and Mike Maignan.

“What has happened to Theo and Zoe is not a pleasant situation, it’s very unpleasant, and they have also affected us, the first days he was very upset and he is working on the pitch, we will help him in everything, we are there. 

“We’re sorry for Mike, we considered everything possible, he wanted to play in Verona, we checked everything, but this injury will keep him out until at least January.”

He commented on any possible rotations he might make against Monza.

“I take into account that we will play seven games in 22 days, nobody will play every game. Many have played a lot, others have played less and are well. 

“I have a group of strong players and if I deploy one instead of the other I don’t lose technical value or personality.”

The Milan coach spoke about the injury crisis currently affecting the club.

“These are situations that can happen, but I have a strong group with the recoveries of Kjaer and De Ketelaere.”

Pioli was not concerned about the possibility of his squad being distracted by the Champions League.

“I don’t fear that. I’ve seen players who are very motivated and attentive, we haven’t spoken about Zagreb, we know the difficulties and pitfalls of tomorrow.”

He spoke about if there was a lack of brilliance in the squad currently.

“In Verona we weren’t a compact team, physical condition had nothing to do with it, we were five at the back and five up front and we gave the feeling of being less performing.”

The Rossoneri coach commented on his relationship with Berlusconi and if they’ve spoken this week.

“He hasn’t called me this week. In the past yes, we talked about football in general and he expressed his ideas on a tactical level, including not playing out from the back.”

He spoke about the integration of the new arrivals in the Milan squad.

“Vranckx, Dest, Thiaw and Adli the more time passes the more they integrate and will prove their worth when it comes. 

“I’m happy with Adli’s performance in Verona, I think this experience has served him well and he can do even better.”

Pioli discussed if the criticism has bothered backup goalkeeper Ciprian Tatarusanu.

“It’s not obvious that he won’t be affected, seven games is a lot even for a goalkeeper. He is an experienced, mature and respected player and he will give his contribution in both the offensive and defensive phases.”

He commented on the work of Charles De Ketelaere.

“Charles is an offensive player, he can play in the middle of the field, on the right centre or left centre: he will be used in these positions. 

“Yes, it is possible to see him with Diaz. The more quality players there are on the pitch, the more chances there are to win games.”

The Italian coach provided an update on Zlatan Ibrahimovic and his help in the dressing room.

“Zlatan in everything he says and does is never trivial, he’s very intelligent, he knows how we want to play and how we prepare matches, and he compares himself with me. 

“His presence is a positive one. His recovery is still a bit long, it will take some time to see him back on the pitch, it’s nice, though, to see him here in Milanello, he’s fine with the guys.”

Pioli compared the first 10 games of this Serie A season to the first 10 games of last season.

“The schedule is completely different compared to the first ones of last year, in my opinion we deserved to collect something more, like with Napoli for example. 

“Then there were some negative situations that need to be improved. Our level must always be high.”

Finally, Pioli discussed what he expects from tomorrow’s opponents Monza.

“They’re a team that defend well, very aggressively, they dribble well, even if Rovella will be missing, Barberis will play. 

“They have complete characteristics. With the new coach they have only conceded one goal and won three out of four matches. They will play against the Italian champions and will be very determined.”

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