Sergio Conceicao Vows To Keep Fighting For AC Milan Despite Pressure After Recent Losses

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Sergio Conceicao has pledged to maintain his dedication at AC Milan despite acknowledging the mounting pressure following their 2-1 defeat to Bologna. Milan's season is teetering after their Champions League exit and two straight Serie A losses, placing them eighth in the standings. They trail Juventus by eight points for fourth place with 12 matches left.

Conceicao's team initially led through Rafael Leao's goal but conceded just after halftime. Dan Ndoye scored the decisive goal in the 82nd minute, leaving Milan unable to equalise late on. This marked Milan's first away defeat at Bologna since March 2002. They have lost seven of their 26 Serie A games this season; only in 2017-18 and 2019-20 did they lose more at this stage, finishing sixth both times.

The recent setbacks have sparked questions about Conceicao's future, as Milan has suffered consecutive Serie A defeats for the first time since January 2023. They are also winless in three matches across all competitions. Conceicao expressed frustration over the results, stating that it's normal for a passionate coach to feel this way when outcomes are unfavourable.

"It's all in our hands," Conceicao told reporters. "If and when the club feels I'm no longer the right person for Milan, I will step aside, but until that moment, I will continue working with the same passion as always." He emphasised that results are crucial to dispelling what he described as a cloud over Milan.

The 50-year-old manager believes media criticism of him is unwarranted. During a press conference, he remarked on how people discuss his situation daily as if he were new to the role. "I faced five very big Italian clubs," Conceicao said, highlighting his experience against coaches like Maurizio Sarri and Stefano Pioli.

Conceicao defended his record, noting his achievements: "I won 13 trophies, I had 100 Champions League games." He expressed frustration over negative comments affecting his family and neighbours. "It's not fair," he added, apologising for his outburst and preferring to focus on football matters.

Upcoming Challenges

Milan will host Lazio next in Serie A on Sunday. Conceicao remains determined to turn things around despite current challenges. The upcoming match presents an opportunity for Milan to regain momentum and improve their standing in the league.