Conceicao Emphasises the Need for AC Milan to Acknowledge Their Shortcomings

AC Milan’s manager Sergio Conceicao empathised with the fans’ frustrations following Saturday’s loss to Torino, asserting that the team must acknowledge their deficiencies and enhance their ability to bounce back from setbacks.

Milan faced a disappointing evening, with an early own goal from Malick Thiaw and a missed penalty from Christian Pulisic contributing to their 2-1 defeat against Torino.

The away supporters expressed their dissatisfaction on Saturday after a difficult few days, which also saw Milan exit the Champions League, with numerous banners and chants pushing the players to elevate their performance.

“The fans have every right to feel this way. It is our responsibility to come here and secure a win; thus, expectations are naturally high. We do not take criticism directed at the directors, players, or staff lightly. We are AC Milan, and we accept this criticism as a unit,” Conceicao shared with the press.

“Torino went into half-time leading 1-0 without registering a shot on target, while we squandered a penalty along with several other goal-scoring opportunities. These things happen, but we need to be mentally tougher in our reactions. I understand it’s challenging for the players too, particularly when Torino’s standout performer was their goalkeeper despite us having 30 shots at goal.”

He further noted that his team continues to lack the necessary cohesion to perform at an elite level and is prone to making excessive errors.

“Every player comes with their own personality. I apologise to the fans who have witnessed our recent performances. The last 12 to 15 goals we conceded were mainly due to avoidable mistakes. It isn’t a matter of strategy or formations; it’s astonishing how these blunders occur,” he added.

For match statistics, check here.