Milan coach Paulo Fonseca is optimistic about his team’s upcoming performance as they prepare to face Club Brugge in the Champions League. He praised the players’ strong attitude and determination, emphasizing the importance of teamwork over individual contributions. At a recent press conference, Fonseca confirmed the return of Rafael Leao to the starting lineup, along with the complete XI for the match. With a blend of experience and talent, the coach is confident that his squad will respond to the challenge and play well on the European stage.
Fonseca Praises Milan’s Attitude, Announces Club Brugge XI
Milan coach Paulo Fonseca expressed his excitement about the team’s mindset as they prepare for their upcoming home Champions League clash against Club Brugge. He highlighted the players’ determination and focus, which he believes will be crucial for their performance in the highly competitive tournament.
During Monday’s press conference, Fonseca not only announced Rafael Leao’s much-anticipated return to Milan’s starting XI for the match but also took the opportunity to unveil the entire lineup. This announcement generated a buzz among fans and the media alike, as supporters are excited to watch the team’s performance on the European stage. Using a combination of new and seasoned athletes, Fonseca is confident that his squad is ready to take on the challenge posed by Club Brugge.
“Mike [Maignan], Emerson, Gabbia, Tomori, Theo; Fofana, Loftus, Tijji [Reijnders], Rafa [Leao], Pulisic, Morata,” Fonseca said.
Portuguese coach Fonseca made the decision to bench Rafael Leao, Fikayo Tomori, and Tammy Abraham for Saturday’s Serie A match against Udinese. He emphasized that the needs of the team were more important than any individual player’s contribution.
However, for the upcoming match against Club Brugge tomorrow, both Leao and Tomori have earned their spots in the starting lineup, indicating their return to form and readiness to contribute. Unfortunately, Tammy Abraham will not be available for this crucial game due to a shoulder injury, which prevents him from joining his teammates on the pitch.
“I feel we are reaching things that will be useful to the team,” continued Fonseca.
“We saw important and nice things in the opening 30 minutes against Udinese. I expected more consistency, but it wasn’t easy after the red card to Tijji. It’s a significant growth, and I hope this attitude is the norm in the future. With this attitude, we can build other things.”
Fonseca Thrilled with Milan, Unveils XI for Club Brugge
Theo Hernandez was serving the first game of a two-match suspension in Serie A on Saturday but is eligible to play in the Champions League. He will serve as vice-captain.
“I haven’t thought about it,” admitted Fonseca.
“It’s a possibility because he feels well and trained well. He has great experience, and he’s fit.”
Did Youssouf Fofana and Alvaro Morata’s attitude stand out on Saturday?
“It’s hard to talk just about them when many players worked hard together. Fofana and Pulisic put in excellent performances, but all players were crucial, also those introduced from the bench,” said Fonseca.
“There is an important feeling. I think everyone was at a high level. It must be the norm for those who play for Milan.”
Francesco Camarda has been promoted to the first team due to the injuries of Abraham and Jovic, who is also absent from Milan’s UEFA roster.
“Normally, we always have solutions for that role. Now we have Camarda, and we strongly believe in him. I don’t think we need more players in this position,” said Fonseca.
Having lost their first two Champions League matches, what is Milan’s goal in the tournament?
“I don’t think about the long-term future. We didn’t win the first two, so we must focus on the next one. We must think only about the next game,” Fonseca concluded.
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