PIOLI: "IT'S A KEY PERIOD OF THE SEASON"

With the big win at the Olimpico behind us, the Rossoneri are ready to dive back into the Europa League. AC Milan will host the Czech side Slavia Praha in the first leg of the Round of 16. This is the first-ever meeting between the two sides, scheduled for Thursday 7 March at 21:00 CET, and ahead of the clash Coach Pioli and Yacine Adli spoke in the pre-match presser at Milanello.

STEFANO PIOLI

FROM THE LEAGUE TO EUROPE
"We didn't play at our best, technically, at the Olimpico, but we showed great character. The only game we let ourselves down in was against Monza, but over the last few months and in this recent period the team has kept up a certain level. The decisive part of the season is upon us and we're ready to meet it head on."

THE EUROPA LEAGUE
"The Champions League is no longer part of our campaign after a few details got away from us. Now, we must focus on just doing well in this competition. We must have the mindset that we can win the trophy. Firstly, we will need to be at out best to get through this round and take it one step at a time, albeit with awareness and enthusiasm. We have to make the most of home advantage; it is a key period of the season because it's not easy for anyone to be competitive in Europe and in the league."

SLAVIA PRAHA'S QUALITIES
"Slavia Praha lost only to Roma in the group stage. They are an intense, direct and energetic team. They play with three players up top, all close to each other, and like to threaten in behind; they have strong and physical forwards. Their head coach is very good because he often changes things around, yet maintaining a high-performance levels. It's not the badge that goes out onto the pitch, but the players and they have reached the quarter-finals twice in recent years. We respect our opponents."

THE GROUP AND INDIVIDUALS
"Having selection choices is a good thing, we have a lot of fixtures and we'll try to maximise the whole squad. Christian Pulisic's story speaks for itself; he has our full support even if he doesn't need it. Rafa Leão has the qualities to always be decisive; even when he doesn't score, he is always leading our attacking plans. The quality of my players, who have talen many strides forward in Europe, will have to make the difference. We have grown and have the ability to go far, but we have to prove it. I try to be clear, direct and correct with everyone. My job is to make decisions and I put the team's interest before everything."

YACINE ADLI

LOOKING TOWARDS EUROPE
"We know we're coming up against a strong side. We're playing the first leg in front of our fans and we'll try to bring an intensity onto the pitch from the first minute. When AC Milan play in any competition the aim is to always go and win it; we have a big opportunity. We are a top side and we want to prove it."

RAPPORT WITH TEAMMATES
"I've always felt trusted and believed in by the staff and teammates. I have a great relationship with everyone; I feel good inside the dressing room and this rapport with them has helped me overcome some tough moments. We have six strong midfielders in the squad, with each one having their own qualities and strengths. In the end, we all want to contribute to team performances."

DEFENSIVE GROWTH
"I've been working hard a lot on this side of the game; there are no secrets. I had to improve in the defensive aspect and the Head Coach - together with the backroom staff - have provided me with many things to reflect on. I still need to work on it and want to get even better."

FRENCH NATIONAL TEAM
"As a player, I want to compete at the highest levels. Playing with France is a goal of mine, but this is not the right moment to explain my motivations".

Match Kits, clothing, accessories, gift ideas and much more: visit AC Milan online Store!