Uncharted Territory for Conceicao
Sergio Conceicao found himself in a uniquely challenging situation after AC Milan’s defeat to Lazio, a loss that further compounded the team’s struggles in Serie A. The match at San Siro was marred by fan protests, a scenario that left the experienced coach feeling deeply unsettled. "This is the first time I’ve experienced this in my career," Conceicao remarked, highlighting the unprecedented nature of the situation. The Curva Sud, one of the most passionate sections of the stadium, remained empty for the first 15 minutes as a form of protest, and the atmosphere only deteriorated as the game progressed.
The Impact of Fan Protests
The fan protests were not merely an isolated incident; they cast a long shadow over the team’s performance. Throughout the match, Milan’s players were subjected to a barrage of insults and criticisms from their own supporters. The emotional toll on the squad was palpable, and Conceicao acknowledged the difficulty this added to an already challenging situation. "We had very little time to prepare," he explained, noting that the club’s recent turmoil and the rapid succession of matches have made it hard to address deeper issues. The coach’s perspective as both a former player and current manager provided a nuanced understanding of the players’ mental state, comparing the pressure to boots feeling like they are burning. "If a dribble or pass doesn’t work, or you go behind, it burns more," he said, emphasizing the added stress that negative fan reactions can impose on athletes.
A Rocky Start and a Late Turnaround
Milan’s performance during the match against Lazio was another point of contention. The team struggled to find its rhythm from the outset, a recurring issue that has plagued them this season. By half-time, they could have been trailing by more than a single goal, yet the score remained level. However, the turning point came when Mattia Zaccagni put Lazio ahead in the second half. Despite being reduced to 10 men with Strahinja Pavlovic’s red card, Milan showed resilience and managed to equalize through Samuel Chukwueze. The team’s determination was evident, but it all came undone at the 98th minute when Pedro scored from a penalty awarded due to Mike Maignan’s foul on Gustav Isaksen. This late defeat was a harsh blow, not just for the players but for the entire club.
Tackling Tactical and Fitness Challenges
Conceicao also addressed the tactical and fitness challenges his team faces. He noted that since taking over, he has had very little time to implement his strategies fully, given the demanding schedule of playing decisive matches every three days. "I only arrived a couple of months ago," he pointed out, explaining that the rapid turnover of matches has limited his ability to work on these aspects. The coach’s frustration was clear, as he recognized the need to improve both the tactical execution and physical condition of his players to turn the team’s fortunes around.
Addressing the Defensive Lapse
One of the most significant criticisms levelled at Milan was their defensive inconsistency. Many observers noted that while the team’s attackers run forward with zest, they do not put the same effort or intensity into tracking back to defend. Conceicao agreed with this analysis, stating, "We are working on that too, because defensive solidity is every bit as important as attacking prowess." He emphasized that the players with technical quality must also contribute to the team’s defensive efforts, highlighting the need for a more cohesive and united approach. "If we defend well, then we can hurt teams in attack," he asserted, reiterating that his coaching philosophy always prioritizes balance and unity.
Moving Forward with Pride and Determination
Despite the setbacks, Conceicao remains optimistic about the future. "It is not an easy moment, we know that. The players feel what is around the club," he said, but he is committed to leading the team through this difficult period. He called for a renewed sense of pride and dedication, urging his players to give their all every day in training and on the pitch. "There is only one path forward, to work, to have pride for the colours we defend and give our all every day to change this situation," he declared. The coach’s resolve and belief in his team’s potential underscore his dedication to turning Milan’s season around, even as they currently languish in ninth place in Serie A, having been leapfrogged by Roma.
