Yahoo Sports Fonseca discusses Coppa Italia target, Leao’s improvements and ‘growing’ Abraham
AC Milan head coach Paulo Fonseca has shed light on what Rafael Leao has changed, and once again stressed that the cup is seen as a trophy target.
The Coppa Italia is a trophy that Milan haven’t won for over two decades, which feels like an incredibly long time for a club that have won basically every other major trophy that they have competed in since.
The last time that the Rossoneri hoisted the domestic cup was back in 2002-03 when Carlo Ancelotti was in charge. A 6-3 aggregate win over Roma – following a 4-1 win at the Olimpico in the first leg – came shortly after lifting the Champions League in Manchester against Juventus.
Fonseca will have to give the right motivation to his team also because the Coppa could be the ‘easiest’ trophy to win for Milan this year. The Scudetto and UCL seem out of reach, while Supercoppa in the Middle East will be a lottery, though he has made eight changes to the team.
The coach spoke not long before kick-off to Italia 1 (via MilanNews), shedding light on his selection choices and ambitions.
Are you out to win the Coppa Italia?
“It’s a competition that I really like, that’s true. I think we have a chance of going forward, the way the competition is organised will take the best teams to the semi-finals. But we have to think about today, without making big plans. But we are Milan, we are ambitious and we want to reach the final.”
More Stories / The Match
Terracciano insists Milan will not underestimate ‘Serie A team’ Sassuolo
Fonseca discusses Coppa Italia target, Leao’s improvements and ‘growing’ Abraham
Official: AC Milan vs. Sassuolo starting XIs – eight changes from Empoli win
You’ll rely on Leao again, has Rafa changed?
“He’s using other spaces, not just on the sideline. He’s doing well, he’s in good form. It’s important to have a strong attack today. I made this choice, I trust everyone. Okafor was sick this week. But it’s a choice to win the game.”
Should Abraham give more in the penalty area?
“He played a great game in Bratislava. Then my choice was to play with Morata against Empoli. But Abraham is growing, he is playing the role differently than in recent years. I expect him to play a good game.”
So you expect leadership?
“Yes, of course (smiles)! It’s important to have this leadership in the team. We have players who can do well.”
