Stefano Pioli refuses to blame Milan ultras for their protest but insists the Rossoneri should have won against Genoa.
Milan coach Pioli ‘respects’ Milan ultras despite a big protest they staged during a 3-3 home draw against Genoa on Sunday.
Fans in Curva Sud remained silent for the whole match and then left with 10 minutes remaining, demanding a clear transfer strategy, communication and ambition from the club.
The ‘strange’ San Siro atmosphere affected Milan players who saw Italy international Mateo Retegui score an early opener from the spot.
“The start was poor. We didn’t have the proper concentration and unity in the opening 20 minutes and conceded an early opener,” Pioli told DAZN.
“Then, we created many opportunities but also made many errors. It’s not about commitment. We went back into the game with quality and we conceded an avoidable goal. This is the reality.”
When asked about the protest from Milan ultras, Pioli replied: “The performance was there, but we were unable to secure a vital victory. We haven’t won any of the last four matches. The fans chose this form of protest, and we can only respect them.
“We must remain focused and do well until the end. Our fans have always been an added value. If they’ve chosen this sort of protest, there is a reason, and we must continue doing well and trying to do more because we have the quality for a good end of the season.”
Milan haven’t won any of the last four Serie A matches.
“It’s a shame we didn’t win because it would have been important for the table. Against Juventus, it was a different game; the teams had a different attitude,” continued Pioli.
“Today, we were forced to put in a different performance against a team that defended with many players. If you want to be attacking-minded and dangerous, you have to take some risks.”
The Parma-born coach admitted that Europa League elimination would be considered when club directors assess the season and his future at the club.
“I think it had an impact. Even if Roma are a good, well-trained side, we could have done more,” said the coach.
“Of course, it had an impact, and it will be considered at the end of the season.”
Rafael Leao was booed by Milan fans when Pioli replaced the Portuguese.
“Rafa did not stay long enough inside the opponents’ box,” Pioli explained.
“I needed a winger who would go inside more often, and Noah [Okafor] did it better. It happens; not all games are the same, and not all performances are the same.”
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