Vieri Emphasizes Importance of Winning to Conceicao at Major Italian Clubs

Christian Vieri, the former Italian striker, has shared some candid advice with his friend and ex-teammate Sergio Conceicao, who now coaches AC Milan. Vieri stressed that at top clubs like Milan, Inter, or Juventus, immediate success is essential.

Speaking to a sports publication before the upcoming Milan derby, Vieri reflected on his time playing alongside Conceicao at Lazio and Inter in the late 1990s and early 2000s. He fondly recalled Conceicao’s skills, describing him as a typical Portuguese player with excellent dribbling abilities.

Vieri acknowledged the challenges Conceicao faces in rebuilding Milan but emphasized the need for patience in assembling the right squad. However, he also highlighted the intense pressure at these prestigious clubs, stating, “If you manage Milan, Inter, or Juventus, you must win everything immediately, or face consequences.”

The former striker defended recent Milan coaches, arguing that they weren’t as ineffective as some critics suggested. He noted that while coaches like Fonseca, Pioli, and Conceicao are competent, the demands of coaching a top Italian club are immense, requiring both time and skill to build a successful team.

Vieri’s comments underscore the high-stakes environment of Italian football’s elite clubs, where immediate results are often prioritized over long-term development.