De Rossi discusses his anxieties about Milan and provides insight into Pioli’s setup.
Ahead of AC Milan’s match against AS Roma, Daniele De Rossi spoke to the media about his team’s possibilities and the threats that the Rossoneri can pose.
Roma’s season has been similar to Milan’s for a number of reasons, most notably the peaks and troughs that both have experienced, albeit the Giallorossi’s peaks may not have extended as far, and the dips in form may have been more prolonged. What is certain, however, is that fate has brought them together to compete for a spot in the Europa League’s final four, and analogies can be drawn between both sides once more due to the importance of progression.
Stefano Pioli, who met with the media earlier today, appears to be in a relatively comfortable position, but losses to Roma in both legs, as well as Inter, could change that. For the visitors, De Rossi’s position is just temporary, although advancement could lead to an extension.
Ahead of the game, De Rossi remarked on Pioli’s managerial abilities and the Diavolo’s dangers, as MilanNews relayed. You wished to return to the San Siro. “I intended to return to the stadium, but I was sad because Roma had already played here. Then providence permitted us to return here, to play in a stadium that, unlike the Olimpico and the Bombonera, offers me something new. This stadium radiates glory; it has produced great players and football. We are pleased to be here.
Is it beneficial to play away the return leg?
“Without the away goal, the gap has decreased, but it’s like the calendar: you have to play everywhere, both home and away. You only need to prepare the game knowing that there are two of them.”
How is Smalling doing?
“He’s okay; he’s a player like the others. We won’t have Ndicka or Hujisen tomorrow, so I had to control him and keep him safe from the start.” How can I counter Milan? “We are aware of Milan’s strength; their players can hurt anyone. We must come at the appropriate time in the positions where Milan’s players prefer to play.” How do you manage Dybala? “Don’t distort them too much, and don’t spoil their athletic condition by forcing them to rush after others. I made a screen earlier: Dybala fought nine duels in the Derby, and he battled like a true leader, which is quite valuable. I won’t assign him to the entire wing with someone like Theo…
What are your concerns about AC Milan? “The quality of the players and their coach. I’ve known Pioli for a long time: he brought points to the tiny clubs, Lazio, and then won the Scudetto with fantastic quality; he’s always changed and improved. Milan plays harmoniously; beyond the times, Milan has rediscovered form, and when they win, they play well, making it difficult for everyone. Even match? “Thank goodness the league table doesn’t count. I read somewhere that the Roma have nothing to lose. No, Roma has everything to lose. We aren’t here to be extras. Draw? We would have to be a little Machiavellian to play for the draw; we must attempt to win.”
Did he need to calm down a bit? “I told you to keep your feet on the ground, but there was no need. I observed joy and smiles, and they were performing well on the pitch. That is plenty for me.