03 March 2020
Maurizio Sarri spoke to the media today where he previewed tomorrow’s Coppa Italia clash against Milan at Allianz Stadium.
“Tomorrow we have to think that a spot for the final is up for grabs, otherwise we will have problems. AC Milan is a compact team, willing to sacrifice and help each other: they are not an easy team to face. Everyone expects results, we have a chance to do better. We can't make great predictions in this period, we have to take everything as it comes, moment by moment."
Sarri then provided an update on his players: “We don't have any big problems with regards to injuries but only small ailments: Chiellini went through a personal programme today and Gianluigi Buffon trained as normal.” He added: “Sami Khedira is progressing and if he is to take to the field, it will be for a small portion of the game. Douglas Costa could also play a part tomorrow night as his condition is improving. It's not important who will be out for Milan tomorrow as they're a team that is growing."
Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t take part in training due to personal reasons, and Sarri addressed the subject of his availability: “Cristiano is experiencing a personal problem and his availability tomorrow depends on this. It is clear that the possible absence of Cristiano can change the tactical plans: there is no substitute in the world for him.”
Before concluding, the Coach touched on last week’s match in the Champions League against Lyon: “I reviewed the match against Lyon: the first half was poor, after the break we did not turn the supremacy into goalscoring opportunities. We have to move the ball much faster; we are working on it and we have to press with conviction. I find it hard to believe that by moving a player five meters behind changes the face of the game: in Lyon what changed was the attitude of the team.
