Pioli explains Milan transformation against Cagliari

Stefano Pioli explains why he dropped big stars for Milan’s match against Cagliari this evening and urges the fans to remain ‘united’ behind the team.

It kicks off at San Siro at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).

You can follow all the build-up and action as it happens from this game and Napoli–Bologna on the LIVEBLOG.

The Rossoneri have practically locked second place down and are already qualified for the Champions League, so Pioli is shaking things up with Rafael Leao, Theo Hernandez and Fikayo Tomori dropped to the bench.

Was this clear-out prompted by physical, tactical or psychological considerations?

“It’s a bit of everything,” the coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“We have not won in six games, those who played a lot are perhaps not very sharp, while those who didn’t play are more physically fresh and mentally free.

“We need more energy, I made those choices to get a better initial approach, more intensity, as we didn’t do well last time.”

Pioli was asked how the big star names reacted to being left on the bench.

“Obviously, they would’ve been happier to start, but they will be ready to come on if needed.”

Pioli appeal to Milan fans

After last week’s 3-3 draw with Genoa in a strange atmosphere, Milan ultras have again announced they will sit in silence in protest at the recent results and general approach that the club has been taking.

“What we created over these years was fantastic, we were very strong together, we were united and all felt part of a combined energy that went onto the pitch. Finishing second and third is not the same thing, so we need to stick together and the fans will also play their part.”

If Milan finish second in Serie A, they will guarantee participation in the Supercoppa Italiana for 2024-25. Is that the objective?

“The objective right now is simply to win. We haven’t won in six rounds. Cagliari are highly-motivated, but so are we, and we’ve got the quality to win this game.”