Conceicao dissects win against Como and highlights issues ‘before my arrival’

After the game between Como and Milan, which the latter won 2-1, Sergio Conceicao spoke to the media. Once again, he made it clear that the Rossoneri have a lot to improve, while also highlighting issues from before his time that need to be solved. 

Milan seemingly only know how to win when conceding the first goal(s). They did it against Juventus and Inter, but failed to beat Cagliari after scoring the opener (finished 1-1). Tonight, yet another turnaround was completed with two second-half goals against Como.

Speaking to Sky Italia after the game, as transcribed by MilanNews, Conceicao reiterated that Milan aren’t close to where they need to be. He also made it clear that some players need to be changed quite a lot for his style of play.

On the game…

“A lot of suffering because we faced a good team, with good players who are well trained. It’s not easy, we prepare the matches with videos and blackboards, but the pitch is missing. We must be more present in attacking and defensive duels. However, there is always a good reaction and a good atmosphere. It’s easier to work after getting positive results. But we still have to improve a lot.”

Worse first half than against Cagliari?

“We play against quality opponents. We weren’t as effective as we were prepared. In the second half, we were better, especially after we conceded a goal. We have to be more solid as a team, we can’t allow the opponent to come out easily. I have to say it and I say it to the guys too. We have to change and work on certain things, the basis of football is solidity: if you don’t concede goals, then the quality we have will create scoring opportunities.”

How much more can you get out of the players?

“A lot, in terms of how we play. They accept it. We have come back from behind in three games, there’s character. We can improve them physically, tactically, technically and in terms of attitude. I can talk for two hours but if they don’t get it into their heads it’s difficult. Then there are the players’ muscular problems, we’re evaluating everything that was done before my arrival. We need to press harder, with more intensity. There’s a lot of work.”

Bennacer and Fofana stepping on each other’s toes?

“True. Isma left because he already had a yellow and in midfield it’s difficult, it could have been risky. It’s also true that they need to improve how they occupy space with and without the ball.”

Can attacking players apply more effective pressure?

“We have clear ideas, the players think that pressing high makes you run more. It’s not true, you don’t run more but you run less. This is my idea of ​​the game. It’s clear that we have players who don’t have these characteristics, let’s try to change them. We have everything to gain. It’s true that Leao, Morata and Pulisic don’t have the characteristics but it’s the team that needs to improve.”

The Rossoneri will be up against Juventus next and it’s worth noting that Alvaro Morata will be suspended for the game. He didn’t have a good game tonight, getting a 5/10 in our player ratings, and the yellow card was the icing on the cake.