Stefano Pioli urges Milan to make the most of their positive end to the last campaign and ‘remember what we built together’ in the push for a Champions League spot.
The Rossoneri finished sixth in Serie A last season, largely thanks to a surge up the standings, going unbeaten during the post-lockdown period.
“We all start the new season from scratch, but the team must remember what we built together,” Pioli told Milan TV after earning a new contract.
Stefano Pioli urges Milan to make the most of their positive end to the last campaign and ‘remember what we built together’ in the push for a Champions League spot.
The Rossoneri finished sixth in Serie A last season, largely thanks to a surge up the standings, going unbeaten during the post-lockdown period.
“We all start the new season from scratch, but the team must remember what we built together,” Pioli told Milan TV after earning a new contract.
“The ideas, philosophy and desire to work together at Milanello are all the same. We’re a young team that haven’t been together long, so we’re still laying some of the foundations.
“It’s certainly an advantage that we did so well over the last few months, as I know the team, am well aware of what they can give and what I can expect from them. It’s been a strange summer with very little time for pre-season training, so we must make the most of that advantage.”
Pioli was seemingly about to be fired until Ralf Rangnick pulled out of negotiations to replace him in late July.
“We’re very much in sync and know where the team has to be improved. The club is working very consistently to strengthen the side and we have the same ideas.
“It’s only right that fans ask us to reach the Champions League, because it’s been too long since Milan were last in this tournament. We want to start strong and build on the way we ended the last season.”
Meanwhile, the Rossoneri are in the Europa League play-offs in order to reach the group stage.
“Our first official match will be on September 17 and it’s in or out. It’s going to be a tough season, as if we get through, there will be six games in 18 days.
“A good start would mean giving a sense of consistency to the last season and that would be important, as well as a complete squad with at least 12-13 first choice players.”