Milan, Stefano Pioli defends Mike Maignan and updates on defensive recoveries

Stefano Pioli’s words ahead of Milan-Napoli

Milan, after the late success against Frosinone, è awaited the big match on Sunday of the 24th day of Serie A against Walter Mazzarri’s Napoli. On the eve of the match, the Rossoneri coach, among other topics discussed in the press conference, wanted to dwell on the criticism received by Mike Maignan regarding too many goals conceded in this first part of the season (27 in 23 games).

"Regardless of the coach, the qualities do not change. With Mazzarri, Napoli has changed something tactically, we do not know if they will play 3 or 4 at the back, but è a quality opponent; to be faced with a lot of attention and a lot of respect. It's difficult for everyone to repeat themselves, it è was for us as well. The championship è still very long and they are not so far from fourth place. They have great quality; and great offensive players" began the coach of the rossoneri.

"Being at Milan means that you must always aim to win in every competition. Then we must not get too unbalanced, we have to build brick by brick, facing one game at a time. We are not interested in criticism, because we are very self-critical with ourselves. Guys like Maignan never lose: they either win or learn, and he came out of this negative period stronger than before,” added the former Lazio coach.

"The recoveries are all going very well, but they have to be analyzed week by week. Malick has forced, today è been totally in the group and tomorrow will not be summoned; he should be there in the Europa League. Kalulu and Tomori will beà important next week" Stefano Pioli commented on the absences in defense.