Conceicao Dismisses Sack Rumours Ahead of Milan Showdown with Napoli

AC Milan’s manager, Sergio Conceicao, has remarked that he is not troubled by his future as his team prepares for their challenging match against Napoli, who are under the guidance of Antonio Conte, this Sunday.

Reports from the Italian media have suggested that Conte could take over at Milan should Conceicao be unable to secure Champions League qualification by finishing in the top four of Serie A.

Currently, Milan sits in ninth place, trailing fourth-placed Bologna by nine points, while Napoli is in second place, fiercely contesting the title against Inter Milan, who hold a three-point advantage at the summit.

“I faced Antonio as a player when he was at Juventus and I was at Lazio. This will be our first meeting as coaches,” Conceicao, who was not at the helm when Milan suffered a 2-0 defeat to Conte’s Napoli back in October, informed the press on Saturday.

“We have a thorough understanding of their playing style and know their key players. We are well-prepared based on these principles, but we are focused on our own team and are ready to create challenges for Napoli. I relish the opportunity to pit ourselves against the best,” Conceicao continued.

Conceicao stated that he has no need to discuss his future with the Milan management.

“My fate hinges on results, and that’s the main focus. The next match is of utmost importance… I am here with a contract at AC Milan and require no further assurances,” he added.

The Portuguese coach believes that despite Milan’s recent struggles, having bounced back from a three-match losing streak with consecutive league victories, they are still capable of finishing in the top four and winning the Coppa Italia this season.

“The atmosphere here is positive and healthy,” he claimed.

Conceicao downplayed any comparisons with Conte, who has a proven track record having won Serie A four times with Juventus and Inter Milan.

“I don’t seek validation; I’m committed to doing the best job I can… The comparison with Antonio is based on our shared passion,” he remarked.

“Both of us have a love for football that extends beyond the pitch, encompassing life, family, and friends. I recognise that Antonio shares similar values. However, the focus must remain on the Napoli-Milan clash, and I don’t view myself as the Portuguese version of Conte.”