Ahead of AC Milan’s clash against Monza this weekend, Raffaele Palladino has spoken about his side’s mentality and the challenges that a struggling Milan will cause his team.
The contrasts between life at Monza and Milan are stark. In the eyes of the Rossoneri, things are bleak. Stefano Pioli’s job is still under speculation, the side’s rough spell has extended past a spell to a prolonged period, and hopes for the season are slim.
However, for the Brianzoli, things could arguably not be better. Palladino has brought an exciting brand of football, which has them sitting only four points outside the European places.
Ahead of the game this weekend, Palladino spoke to TMW, and his comments were relayed by RadioRossonera.
How much of a challenge can Milan pose in their current situation?
“A great team [in this case, Milan], when facing a complicated moment always manages to pull out something extra. However, we want to do well, maintain enthusiasm and solidity, and above all, the mentality of playing against all of them.”
The mentality of Monza…
“The team knows we have to take it game by game. There will be difficult matches, AC Milan, Fiorentina, Napoli, Frosinone… Our mentality must always be the same, playing and trying to score against all of them.
Can Monza look ahead?
“The aim is to go match by match, not to get distracted or influenced by the standings. If you miss two games you are immediately taken back, so we look both in front and behind, aware that we are growing. The team has responded well even to absences.”
The importance of the upcoming fixtures for the Diavolo cannot be understated. Following the late defeat against Atalanta, the next two fixtures are pivotal in regards to the immediate future of the club – Newcastle United in the Champions League and Monza in Serie A. Two defeats could wipe out any chances of a successful season for the club. Two victories could be the kick-starter to a come-back story for the ages.
