Derby nightmare set aside for Newcastle clash, says AC Milan's Pioli

The seven-time European champions were hammered 5-1 by Serie A leaders Inter Milan on Saturday, a brutal defeat which swept away all the positive vibes created by a new-look team claiming three straight wins before the international break. It was a fifth defeat in as many Milan derbies in 2023, Inter racking up an aggregate score of 12-1 over those matches which include last season's Champions League semi-final.

"We had a lot of faith and positivity for the derby but it didn't go well, there's no point hiding it. It was a big disappointment, but we have the Champions League and that is good as it's the only way to switch. These defeats in the derby hurt... I'd give everything to change them but unfortunately they went how they went," Pioli told reporters.

Milan have been drawn in a tough Group F which also features Borussia Dortmund and French champions Paris Saint-Germain, and a good start at home to Saudi Arabia-backed Newcastle would be the perfect response to Saturday's disappointment.

"I know I have a good team, this group of players will be able to get over a really difficult derby. I owe a debt to the fans because last year when we were struggling, when we were playing really badly, they stayed behind us," said Pioli.

Sandro Tonali will return to the San Siro earlier than expected after being sold to Newcastle in July, one of two big changes over the summer with club icon Paolo Maldini being sacked as technical director. Italy midfielder Tonali, who is expected to feature on Tuesday, is a boyhood Milan fan and was a key component of the team which won a first league title in 11 years in 2022.

"It will be emotional. Sandro is a great player and was important to us getting where we are today. We won together and we grew together, and it will be emotional for him to return to the San Siro. We wish him the very best - from the next match ," said Pioli.  Milan currently sit third in Serie A, three points behind Inter and one off Juventus.

 

September 18, 2023