Pioli discusses his coaching approach, pre-match rituals and his song after renewing contract | OneFootball

AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli has reacted after he signed a contract extension that will see him stay at the club until 2023.

There had been many rumours over the last few weeks suggesting that Pioli was all set to be rewarded with a new deal given his fantastic work after taking over early on in the 2019-20 season after Marco Giampaolo’s less than ideal seven-game reign.

Pioli spoke live to Milan TV after the signing of his renewal, with his comments relayed by MilanNews, starting with a reflection on the victory against Atletico Madrid on Wednesday night. It felt like the next step for his as a manager, as he recorded his first ever Champions League to keep the slim knockout stage hopes alive.

“It is a beautiful victory, but we hope there will be many others because we are very ambitious,” he said.

Pioli was asked about how he prepares the team for each game, and his coaching style.

“I prepare it taking care of all the details with the team, even up to a few minutes before the game. I want to understand above all how the players are mentally. The only ritual before the game is coffee, at least I can to relax a few minutes before the game.”

On the turtleneck he wear: “This too is another ritual I have.”

On formations: “I study everything, I’m very curious. Before proposing something to the players you have to study it well and believe it.”

Now, the chant ‘Pioli is on fire’ has become synonymous with the Rossoneri head coach, something that started last year and has now been heard ringing out around San Siro before games.

“It’s a wonderful feeling, it’s always a great emotion. I hope to jump with them soon. That choir was born last year on the bus with the team in a spontaneous way, the fans have taken it back.”

READ MORE: Stefano Pioli extends his contract as AC Milan head coach until 2023