AC Milan manager Sergio Conceicao expressed his disappointment with his team’s performance after they failed to secure automatic qualification for the last 16 of the Champions League.
The 2-1 loss to Dinamo Zagreb highlighted a lack of aggression from Milan, ultimately leading to their placement in the knockout phase playoffs instead. Conceicao acknowledged that the match was filled with unfavorable moments, but he also admitted that the team’s lack of aggression in the first half was a significant factor in their defeat. He emphasized the importance of a strong foundation in football and the need for constant defensive and offensive duels.
Conceicao further acknowledged that his team lacked desire and stressed the necessity for increased aggression and presence in future matches. Despite the disappointing result, he noted some positives ahead of their upcoming Serie A clash against Inter Milan on Sunday.
“I really enjoyed the second half, as we made an effort to secure a victory even with only 10 players on the field. Unfortunately, we couldn’t achieve it, but now we need to concentrate on the upcoming match and strive to change the atmosphere surrounding us. We have enough time to do so, and it’s crucial that we put in more effort.”
With Milan now shifting their focus to both Serie A and the knockout stages of the Champions League, Conceicao remains optimistic that his team can still achieve success this season.
“I’ve had a discussion with the management to identify areas where we need to improve. We are actively searching for solutions that can strengthen us and make us more formidable,” he stated.
“We still have complete control of our destiny, both in the league and in the Champions League.”
