Conceicao sheds light on post-Genoa huddle, work in training and Fofana’s issue | OneFootball

AC Milan head coach Sergio Conceicao has dismissed the idea of formations being decisive, insisting far more work goes on in training.

Midway through the second half it looked like being a very forgettable night for Milan as they trailed 1-0 to Vitinha’s volley. However, the substitutes made the difference as Rafael Leao levelled things and then forced an own-goal as part of a three-minute turnaround.

While the result does not exactly provide a massive boost to the chances of finishing in a European spot in the league, it does build further belief and confidence in view of the Coppa Italia final against Bologna next week, with the dress rehearsal to come in the league at San Siro on Friday.

Conceicao spoke to DAZN after the game to give his thoughts on what was ultimately another positive night for his side from a result standpoint. MilanNews relayed his comments.

How satisfied are you with how much character this team has, even beyond the individuals?

“I think that even today it was the demonstration of a united and strong group, where those who came on during the match gave something more.

“We changed the position and we put Joao with Santi up front and we opened up the attack a bit. The demonstration not of the skill of the coach but of the skill of the players.”

What did you say in the heddle at the end of the game? That now we go and win the Coppa Italia?

“No. That those who haven’t been used have to work because tomorrow is a day off. Is that okay? That’s exactly right. I’m not a liar, I prefer not to say things rather than telling lies.”

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Did you want to use this formation from the start?

“We started one way and ended another, they pay me to work and read the game. Sometimes we coaches manage to give a little more to the team and sometimes we don’t. The skill is of the players who went in and believed in what we work on.

“We don’t just work on a formation. We work on an individual and departmental level and also in the collective. There are mistakes sometimes, like for the goal conceded.

“During the week, since we have more time to work, we try to give other solutions to the players. That’s why we are at Milanello, very focused on working on these things. When the players succeed and we win we are happy.”

Is Fofana okay?

“He had a small problem with his foot, even during the week he made an effort to be able to train. He felt the situation worsening. He has a small problem, I think nothing special. We have to manage it, everyone is important, all the players.”