Fonseca on Leao Benching and Milan Scudetto Chances

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The Cult of Calcio

·30 October 2024

Fonseca on Leao Benching and Milan Scudetto Chances

Paulo Fonseca remained optimistic following the loss to Napoli, which saw Milan drop to an 11-point disadvantage from the top of the table while having played one fewer game. He voiced his thoughts to DAZN and in the post-match presser (via SOSFanta).

“I can’t say that the Scudetto isn’t our goal after seeing how we played and responded after a difficult moment and how much we created. I don’t recall any team winning or losing the title after nine games. Our objective is to do well and obtain results to join the fray.”

Fonseca was quizzed about Rafael Leao.

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“I handle things with the footballers in a different manner. There’s no conflict between us, it’s just an option for the coach. We try to motivate the players, then it’s up to them to have the right abnegation. We can’t beg them. But I’m not referring to him in particular.” “It’s not easy to play with three wingers: Christian Pulisic doesn’t fare well in that role, while Noah Okafor does. Leao subbed in well today and showed us something, but also his teammate did okay. It’s tough for me to decide between them now. The former is pushing to return to the XI, and that’s a positive.”

Fonseca took stock of Milan’s start.

“I expected some more points and didn’t anticipate so much trouble in changing our style, even though we’re starting to see it. Napoli scored on their only two chances, and we did some good things. We didn’t capitalize on our opportunities, but I look at our growth. We need to improve in the back, while I have never seen any squad have the same offensive quality we had today.”