Conceicao: Milan’s Champions League exit a ‘failure’, but I take responsibility, not Theo

AC Milan coach Sergio Conceicao acknowledged their Champions League elimination by Feyenoord as “definitely a failure”, but insisted he bears responsibility for the team’s struggles rather than Theo Hernandez.

The Rossoneri needed to overturn a 1-0 first leg deficit but conceded early when Santiago Gimenez scored against his former club. A red card to Theo Hernandez in the second half proved decisive, though Conceicao felt his side should have shown more mental fortitude in a match they had controlled until that point.

“Exiting at this stage is clearly a failure as we aimed to reach the Round of 16,” Conceicao stated post-match. “Tonight demonstrated we were the stronger team, but key moments made the difference just like in Zagreb – a red card there and another one today.”

“You could argue the referee was harsh, but we needed greater mental resilience. I accept responsibility, not Theo. We’ll address it internally. Theo has contributed greatly to Milan and I’ve made plenty of errors in my career too.”

Conceicao suggested the current atmosphere at Milan is making his job more challenging, noting: “I only arrived recently but I’m being compared to long-serving coaches. We’ve had limited time with the full squad. We secured the only trophy available, we’re in the Coppa Italia semis, and our league form has been decent.”

“The environment here isn’t ideal and today’s red card exemplifies that – we must improve this aspect. Believe me, it’s no easy task. To change the atmosphere, we simply need to keep winning matches. Our focus now shifts to Turin and then the Coppa Italia.”