Allegri: Replacing Leo was due to physical reasons; it is important to remain undefeated despite a battalion of injured soldiers

Hupu News, October 29, AC Milan drew 1-1 with Atlanta in the 9th round of Serie A away from home. After the game, Milan coach Allegri attended the press conference.

Is this the toughest game of the season?

"We had several players injured at this stage, but the team's response was good. In the first half, we were forced to defend because we made too many technical errors during the ball release phase. In fact, we had the opportunity to control the game. I don't know if it was because of fatigue, but also thanks to Atlanta's performance. In short, we played a bit sluggishly in the first half and conceded an avoidable goal."

"The second half was a wonderful second half. I We created a lot of scoring opportunities, but we didn't do well in the last 20 meters, which must be improved. This team must believe more in what they are doing. The goal we conceded in the first half was avoidable, and our formation was good at that time. The players should be satisfied with the performance in Bergamo. We have continued our unbeaten momentum and now we will face Roma on Sunday. It will be an exciting game."

Play better in the second half?

"Of course, yes, we played better. We knew that our opponents would struggle more in the second half, but we need to improve our shooting success rate and the quality of decision-making when passing the ball in the last 20 meters. After the game, I told the players that there must be a balance: we have to keep moving forward as we have always done, even if we encounter difficulties. Now we need to recover physical fitness, but the players should be satisfied with their performance tonight."

Why replaced Leo?

"He has a little hip problem, which appeared against Pisa before. Although he had participated in training before, he didn't feel very good at the end of the first half, so I decided to replace him because the team needed fresh strength. Rafa was no longer able to sprint at full speed, so I would rather replace him."

Can he make it to Sunday's game? How is Jimenez doing?

"Jimenez was just hit. Let's see about Leo, but there should be no big problem. We are also expected to welcome Estupinian back against Roma. In the next ten days, we have to grit our teeth and get through it, and then after the international break, we can welcome back all the players."

Did the team play better after replacing Loftus? What do you think of the performances of Nkunku and Jimenez?

"Nkunku played very well and performed well as a center today. After Atalanta's physical fitness declined, we began to find more passing routes... Loftus was explosive in that position and played very well for 20 minutes. During that time, we should have scored. There was a goal that Nkunku should have opened up, but he cut in the opposite direction; there was also Fofana's shot, and Salle Meikes' kick was blocked by Pav The shot blocked by Lovich..."

"We created a lot of good opportunities in the second half, and the opponent only made one shot when we made a mistake. Jimenez worked very hard. As long as he keeps calm, the goals will come. He is a hard-working young man who has devoted a lot to the team. "

In what areas does the team still need to improve?

"We need to reduce the loss of the ball and at the same time improve efficiency on the offensive end."

Jimenez has not been able to score yet, how can he improve?

"He is a very important player for Milan and has provided a lot of help to the team in the defensive stage. I believe that as long as he continues to train hard, the goal will come sooner or later. Next, we must unite and move forward together."