Milan And Conceicao Remain Determined To Qualify For Champions League Despite Setbacks

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Sergio Conceicao remains optimistic about AC Milan's chances of securing a Champions League spot this season, even though they trail Juventus by nine points. Milan faces Genoa at the Stadio Comunale Luigi Ferraris on Monday, needing a victory to keep their European ambitions alive. The Rossoneri have been successful in 13 of their last 14 Serie A encounters with Genoa, losing only once in 2020.

Despite winning the Supercoppa Italiana against Inter early in Conceicao's tenure, Milan's current campaign has not met expectations. Since taking over from Paulo Fonseca last December, the 50-year-old manager has led Milan to 13 victories in 26 matches across all competitions. However, he acknowledges that there is still much work to be done.

Conceicao highlighted that merely changing tactics does not solve all issues. "We just need to work, it's not like a change of system automatically fixes everything," he stated. The team consistently creates opportunities but struggles with balance and defensive stability. These areas are being addressed both collectively and individually to avoid costly mistakes.

In addition to league challenges, Conceicao has guided Milan to the Coppa Italia final against Bologna. Despite being ninth in Serie A, he insists on maintaining focus on league performance rather than prioritising the cup final. "Every day that we come here, there is the responsibility of working for a club like Milan," he said.

Conceicao provided updates on player fitness, including Luka Jovic and Kyle Walker. "Luka Jovic is feeling better. He had three training sessions with us," Conceicao mentioned. However, Tammy Abraham is sidelined due to fitness issues along with Warren Bondo and Riccardo Sottil. Kyle Walker is fit and can play either in a back three or as a wing-back.

The manager emphasised the importance of proving their quality daily despite their current league position. "The Serie A table is what it is, but we have the responsibility to prove our quality every day," Conceicao remarked. This determination reflects his commitment to improving Milan's standing and performance.

Milan's journey under Conceicao continues as they strive for consistency and improvement across competitions. With key players returning from injury and tactical adjustments underway, the team aims to finish the season strongly while keeping an eye on future successes.