Conceicao Discusses Milan’s Performance and Addresses Dismissal Rumors After Derby Stalemate

Following AC Milan’s 1-1 draw with Inter in the Serie A derby, head coach Sergio Conceicao shared his thoughts on the team’s performance and responded to recent speculation about his future at the club.

Conceicao expressed dissatisfaction with certain aspects of Milan’s play, particularly in the first half. He noted that the team’s attempt to press higher up the pitch lacked cohesion, leaving them vulnerable to counter-attacks. The Portuguese manager emphasized the need for improvement in this area, stating, “We must work on this. We had the right attitude, but we have work to do.”

Addressing the team’s overall approach, Conceicao called for more assertiveness from his players. “We must be stronger than this. We are at Milan, and the players here must take responsibility to keep the ball and stop the opponents,” he insisted.

When questioned about recent rumors regarding his potential dismissal, Conceicao responded with humor: “I still have luggage in my car, and they [the media] want to send me away already.” He dismissed some of the speculation as untrue, focusing instead on the importance of the team demonstrating “personality, ambition, and desire to win.”

Conceicao also commented on the performance of Rafael Leao, praising the player’s extraordinary moments while stressing the importance of consistency and teamwork. “If he understands this, he’ll become one of the best players in the world,” the coach remarked.

Milan’s next challenge comes in the Coppa Italia quarter-finals against Roma on Wednesday, where Conceicao and his team will look to build on their derby performance.