Carlo Ancelotti admits Napoli were sluggish and wasteful in the Milan stalemate, while explaining why he was sent off in stoppages.

The tactician surprised everyone by starting a very attack-minded formation with Lorenzo Insigne, Jose Callejon, Dries Mertens and Arkadiusz Milik together, but they failed to break down Milan in the 0-0 draw.

“We didn’t score and there’s not much else to add,” the Coach told DAZN.

Carlo Ancelotti admits Napoli were sluggish and wasteful in the Milan stalemate, while explaining why he was sent off in stoppages.

The tactician surprised everyone by starting a very attack-minded formation with Lorenzo Insigne, Jose Callejon, Dries Mertens and Arkadiusz Milik together, but they failed to break down Milan in the 0-0 draw.

“We didn’t score and there’s not much else to add,” the Coach told DAZN.

“We were too soft in the first half, while in the second we did better, but the finishing was too central. It’s a pity about the first half performance, really.

“Despite all the possession, we never managed a decent transition and also allowed too many counter-attacks, so clearly were unbalanced. We weren’t in control of the game.

“I expected Milan to have a defensive approach, as they use lines of five and it’s difficult to overcome them. We unfortunately made it easier for them with a sluggish tempo.”

Fabian Ruiz was very harshly sent off for a second bookable offence, even though replays show he did not handle the ball, closely followed by Ancelotti for dissent.

“I said a swearword, although it wasn’t aimed at the referee. I’m not even sure it’s still considered swearing…”

This was a special match for Napoli, as it was Kalidou Koulibaly’s first visit to San Siro since the ugly racist chanting from Inter fans on December 26.

“It’s a totally different atmosphere and this is what we want to see in the stands. I applaud all the supporters.”

The Milan ultras also reserved a banner for Ancelotti, declaring their ‘indelible years the symbol of an era, forever a Rossoneri legend.’

“It was an emotional moment, as I spent wonderful times here and there’s always a special bond with the Milan fans. I would never want to face the Rossoneri, but unfortunately it’ll happen again on Tuesday.”

The teams meet again in the Coppa Italia quarter-final.

Ancelotti also spoke to Sky Sport Italia and was asked about Allan’s negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain, as the Brazilian was left out of this match.

“I won’t get into negotiations that are ongoing. As far as I am concerned, the matter is over, Allan will remain our player and we never intended to sell if not for something extraordinary.

“The player has been contacted, even though that shouldn’t happen, and we listened to his requests, after which nothing happened. He will stay with us and play on Tuesday.”

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Tickets Kit Collector