The words of coach Pioli on the eve of AC Milan v Roma in the Europa League

The clock keeps ticking, and we've now arrived at the eve of AC Milan v Roma, the first leg of an all-Italian quarter-final tie in the Europa League. At Milanello, Coach Stefano Pioli held a press conference to give their thoughts ahead of the San Siro showdown, which comes at a crucial juncture of the competition and the Rossoneri's season.

FAITH

"So far in the Europa League, when we've been at home first, we have always been good at gaining an advantage. We won't be able to close the deal, but it would be crucial to have an advantage. It will be difficult, but we believe. The important thing is to keep playing and believing in our strengths. The spectacle shouldn't be lacking. If you want to be an attacking team that harnesses its technical strengths, you inevitably have to take some risks."

DE ROSSI'S ROMA

"I expect the best Roma. With De Rossi, Roma has changed their approach. He's doing a great job because he's proving credible. The team follows him. I don't know what choices he'll make, also because those who face Milan often adopt specific measures. We are prepared, and we will adapt, trying to be more dangerous and effective."

DECISIVE MOMENT

"We're in good form, but the most important moment is now, and will it determine our season. It will require attention, quality, intensity, and energy. We want to win, and we will try. For me, we're not far from the level of the best in Europe. We play a modern style of football. We are competitive."

THE DEFENCE

"Without Tomori, we lose some aggression and speed, but we still have alternatives capable of making the right adjustments against their attack. Thiaw and Kjær are in almost identical physical conditions, and I will choose based on the game and the opponent I expect."

(Photo LaPresse)

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Europa League Milan Pioli