During his pre-match press conference, Stefano Pioli revealed where Sergiño Dest ‘must improve’ and said he would enjoy Napoli–Juventus tonight.
The Rossoneri boss met the media on the eve of Saturday’s away Serie A match against Lecce.
He discussed the issues faced by his lads in the last two games against Roma and Torino, explaining why they don’t need new signings in the January transfer window.
Milan faced Coppa Italia elimination earlier this week, losing 1-0 at San Siro against a Torino side reduced to 10 men. Barcelona loanee Dest started as a left wing-back in a 3-5-2 formation, offering a convincing performance.
But where does the USMNT international has to improve to get regular playing time?
“He played a good game against Torino. I told him that his problem is mentality,” said Pioli.
“He must remain focused every day because he has important characteristics.
“I don’t think starting in an attacking position is good for you. He has excellent intensity and dynamism and has the qualities to help defensively.”
Dest joined Milan on loan from Barcelona last summer and the Rossoneri have an option to make his move permanent for €20m in June.
Milan sit second in the Serie A table, level on points with Juventus, who visit leaders Napoli at the Stadio Maradona tonight.
Massimiliano Allegri said Napoli are the favourite, but Luciano Spalletti didn’t look impressed and hit back, claiming the Old Lady’s coach was trying to hide.
“They are Tuscans who like clashes. They keep saying that the other team is the favourite,” argued Pioli.
“Right now, Napoli are clearly favourite. Seven points are many, but not it’s not a decisive gap. I’ll enjoy the match. On one side, there is Napoli’s brightness, on the other one, Juventus’ pragmatism.”
Play Dest & it will come. He was solid @ the WC for the USA. I would play him in place of Saelmakers.