Fonseca admits Milan ‘lack courage’ but defends style: “I knew it would be difficult” | OneFootball

Paulo Fonseca issued a defiant defence of his work in progress at AC Milan, but once again admitted that his side are defensively very vulnerable.

Milan began their 2024-25 Champions League campaign with a defeat as they were beaten 3-1 at San Siro by Liverpool on Tuesday night, though things started well when Christian Pulisic drilled a low shot inside the far post less than three minutes into the game.

Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk each scored headers from set-pieces to turn the game on its head before the break, then Dominik Szoboszlai was on hand to turn in a third from close range and effectively put the game to bed.

In truth the Rossoneri never really looked like getting back into the game from there and they were jeered off by the fans who are not happy with the results so far this season and the worrying performance levels.

After admitting his team’s defensive weaknesses and suggesting they are not following his plan during an interview with Sky, Fonseca spoke at his post-match press conference and MilanNews relayed his comments.

What do you think about the fans’ protests?

“I don’t think it was a problem of attitude. We started well, both defensively and offensively. After their second goal, however, we lost our balance emotionally, the team started to make mistakes that are inevitable against teams like Liverpool. I have to say that Liverpool were stronger than us and are stronger than us at this moment.”

What is the most serious problem?

“I haven’t spoken to the guys yet. We have several problems. When things are going well the team wants to play and do things well, when there are problems the team lacks the courage to do the same. Defensively we are fragile, we are fragile. In one-on-one it has always been difficult, there are obvious difficulties.”

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Can the problems be solved for the derby?

“Working, watching, showing what we did well and what we did wrong. The goals we conceded are not very active for this type of competition. But working is the only way to change things.”

When you signed for Milan, did you expect it to be so difficult?

“They brought me here to change the way the team plays and that’s what I’m trying to do. I knew it would be difficult. Changing so much is always difficult and it’s not proving easy, because it’s a very big change.

“I’m as strong as I was on the first day, knowing that the results are not what we want and that we don’t have time. What brought me here is my way of playing and that’s what I will continue to do with this team.”