Stefano Pioli has warned Sassuolo that Milan still have plenty of ‘fuel in the tank’ and explained why Zlatan Ibrahimovic was ‘angry’ last time out.
The match at Mapei Stadium tomorrow pits together two of Serie A’s form teams, with only one defeat between them since the restart.
“This game will require maximum attention, respect and focus,” Pioli said at a press conference.
Stefano Pioli has warned Sassuolo that Milan still have plenty of ‘fuel in the tank’ and explained why Zlatan Ibrahimovic was ‘angry’ last time out.
The match at Mapei Stadium tomorrow pits together two of Serie A’s form teams, with only one defeat between them since the restart.
“This game will require maximum attention, respect and focus,” Pioli said at a press conference.
“Sassuolo have three forwards who have scored more than 10 goals each. We’ve had games that were tight, difficult and played to a high standard.
“We killed off the game against Bologna early. It allowed us to make some extra changes.
“We’re in a good way mentally. I’ll use our final training session to gauge who’s in the best shape.
“We’ve put in some top performances, not only for the present but also for the future. We’re aware of the individual and collective quality we have to win games.”
Ralf Rangnick remains in the shadows, so is the current Milan coach at all perturbed?
“All I care about is that the fuel in our engine will burn until August 2. Only after that will we start thinking about next season.
“We’ve worked so hard and held on to seventh place. The tank is in good shape, we’re not using any reserve fuel. There are four games to go and we’ll show that we’re on track.”
Ibrahimovic did not look best amused when he came off against Bologna, and Pioli revealed why.
“Ibra’s presence and position on the pitch gives us lots of solutions because he’s good at dropping deep and his teammates are good at exploiting the space he creates.
“Needless to say, our numbers going forward are excellent. Ibra was angry because he wanted to play the whole game and score goals.
“His last two performances have been of the highest level and he’s been a point of reference for us.
“The team need him from the start, so he has to be in the right frame of mind.”