AC Milan Coach Sergio Conceicao Strives To Reignite Team's Passion Ahead Of Derby

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Sergio Conceicao is optimistic that AC Milan can regain their form and enthusiasm in the upcoming Milan derby on Sunday. His tenure as Milan's coach began with an impressive four-match unbeaten streak, including a thrilling 3-2 victory over Inter to secure the Supercoppa Italiana title in January. However, recent setbacks have challenged the team.

AC Milan's recent performances have been inconsistent, with a 2-0 defeat to Juventus in mid-January marking a turning point. This loss was followed by a surprising 2-1 defeat against Dinamo Zagreb in the Champions League, which cost them an automatic spot in the last 16. Consequently, they now face a two-legged play-off.

In Serie A, Milan has struggled against top-eight teams, securing only five points from such encounters. Their sole victory came against Inter in the reverse fixture. Conceicao emphasised the need for passion and desire, recalling how players showed positive energy during the Supercoppa Italiana final in Riyadh.

Conceicao expressed his vision for a compact team that presses high and creates offensive opportunities with intensity. He acknowledged that achieving this style of play requires specific players, which he currently lacks. "This is why we play differently," he stated, adding that he was aware of these limitations upon joining.

Milan's journey in the Champions League saw them drop from sixth to thirteenth after losing to Zagreb. They now face Feyenoord over two legs this month for a knockout round spot. Their last win against Dutch opposition in major European competitions was in October 2008 against Herenveen.

The team has since recorded three draws and one loss against Dutch sides. Conceicao remarked on the necessity of positivity and energy but stressed the importance of growth beyond these attributes. "After the first half in Zagreb, we can't go any lower," he noted.

Milan Derby Anticipation

Milan prepares to face an Inter side eager for derby success and buoyed by their recent form under Simone Inzaghi. Inter sits second in Serie A, just three points behind Napoli with a game in hand. They also secured a Champions League last-16 spot with a decisive 3-0 win over Monaco.

Milan holds seventh place in Serie A, trailing by 19 points but also having a game in hand on top teams. Conceicao reflected on his experience facing Inter while at Porto, noting their consistency and familiarity among players as advantageous traits.

He emphasised understanding Inter's game dynamics and exploiting their weaknesses as crucial strategies for success in the derby clash.