Stefano Pioli explains what Charles De Ketelaere brings and why Rafael Leao must continue the growth process at Milan rather than Chelsea. ‘He drifts out of the game sometimes.’
The Rossoneri got right back on track after last week’s 1-1 draw with Atalanta and for the first time kept a clean sheet this season in the 2-0 victory over Bologna.
Rafael Leao scored the opener on an assist from De Ketelaere, who had his first start for the club, then the Portuguese talent floated a ball over the top for Olivier Giroud’s acrobatic glancing volley.
“Playing in front of our fans is always a special emotion and we try to turn their passion into energy on the pitch. The team is more concentrated and has more self-belief than in the past, played with determination to attack and defend as a unit. I am satisfied, knowing we can still improve,” Pioli told Sky Sport Italia.
“There’s no doubt De Ketelaere has quality, but also no doubt it needs time to get to know his teammates and settle into the new league. He can control the ball under pressure, it’s just about learning the timing of the pass.”
Leao has been linked with a potential €130m move to Chelsea, but Milan are determined to lock him down and the Portugal international also seems eager to continue the growth process at San Siro.
The forward has progressed in leaps and bounds since Pioli took over and that paternal approach is key.
“Someone with such potential must keep thinking he can improve day by day. Rafa has the right attitude in training and during the match, he is a very intelligent lad. I think his body language can let him down sometimes, but he must keep trying to get stronger and stronger.
“One of the steps he still needs to make is that at times he drifts out of the game and instead he has to be constantly on his toes.”
With Theo Hernandez and Rafael Leao on the left flank, inevitably Milan are very unbalanced, but Pioli sees that as part and parcel of their approach.
“As we have a very attacking push down the left, we need the right side to be attacking yes, but also do more of the dirty work defending and plugging gaps. Messias and Saelemaekers help provide that balance.
“Anything can happen in football, it’s early days, but I don’t think Adli can play on the right. He’s more for the centre and maybe on the left.”
Pioli confirmed to Sky Sport Italia that Milan have agreed a deal for Schalke 04 defender Malick Thiaw.
“He is a player with great potential, quick, intelligent, physical, has good technique, so has the right characteristics to be part of our squad.”
All the talk about our forwards but Bologna had zero shots on target. Our defense is back in business.
@ milan fan , we shall see when you face better team
Well actually one, but it was a free kick that hit the post.
Post doesn’t count as on target though.
I will advise Milan to keep Rafa , because it has allot to show. Up Milan 4 life