Pioli comments on Milan’s future with departure looming: “I can only be grateful” | OneFootball

AC Milan will play their last away game under Stefano Pioli this weekend against Torino, and ahead of the game, the 58-year-old has offered his thoughts about the club’s future in a press conference.

The immediate future seems weird without Pioli, but it is something that Rossoneri fans can be excited about. For the first time in five years, Milan will move forward without the Italian head coach at the helm, even if there have been several close calls.

There have been several occasions where the stock had seemingly reached dismissal point this season, but the coach has stayed, proving himself in vital moments. However, there have been too many occasions where the pattern has repeated, and this means the club have had to make a decision.

Pioli is optimistic for the club’s future, given he has given his successor all the tools to succeed. The squad is strong, with a youthful core that will only improve, and there is significant value throughout.

Speaking in his press conference, he provided a message to his players and the club regarding his experiences during his tenure.

“The relationship I have created and had with the players is really deep, which also goes beyond what we did or didn’t do… I can only be grateful and happy. I do this job here to get excited and I got excited here; that goes beyond any result, any criticism, any glory or benefit. For this, I will always say thank you to my players.

“The new ones have important qualities and they can do even more, indeed: they will certainly do more. Last year, when we applauded together for second place in the gym, I asked the guys about their team ranking last year and no one, apart from Okafor, had reached such a high level. Then we had ups and downs, but not for lack of willingness or compactness. That’s why I want to reward everyone in these last two games. I can only be grateful to this group.”