AC Milan manager Sergio Conceicao stated on Friday that he is not concerned with speculation regarding his position and brushed aside suggestions that he has heightened motivation to overcome potential successor Cesc Fabregas’ Como in their Serie A clash on Saturday.
The Rossoneri currently sit ninth in the league with 44 points from 28 fixtures and were knocked out of the Champions League during the playoffs last month.
Their recent performances have led to speculation in the Italian press about Conceicao’s future at the club, with Como’s Fabregas being one of the names linked to the managerial role.
“I can’t control what others say and think. What I can control is our training. The rest is simply what it is. I’ve been in football for many years, and I’m accustomed to everything,” Conceicao told the media ahead of the home fixture against Como, who sit in 13th place.
When questioned about the upcoming match against Fabregas, he remarked: “If my motivation hinged on that, I would be unwell, perhaps needing a hospital visit. Fabregas is a solid coach, and he’s doing well.”
“Our primary focus is on securing three points. We need to analyse their strengths and weaknesses and concentrate on our own performance. If we execute our game plan effectively, we’ll be closer to victory.”
“This is Milan taking on Como, not Conceicao against the other coach.”
The Portuguese manager, who has often had limited time to prepare between matches since taking the reins in December, expressed his pleasure at having the entire week to train with the Milan squad.
“This was crucial for us. It’s vital to work on game situations as well as our physical fitness, which we definitely needed,” Conceicao commented.
“The players have shown fantastic spirit. I appreciate witnessing their enthusiasm in matches. They are joyful and engaged. We are tackling aspects of our play that we haven’t worked on together previously.
“We strive every day to develop as a team… Como will present a challenging test. I prefer not to think too far ahead. I find joy and satisfaction in our training.”
Conceicao also mentioned that midfielder Ruben Loftus-Cheek, absent from league action since December due to injury concerns, is now available for selection.
“I haven’t had the chance to use him because of injuries, but now he’s at 100%. While he may not be ready for a full 90 minutes, I have a strong regard for him,” he added.
“He’s an exceptional midfielder who makes great incursions into the opponent’s area. Physically, he’s phenomenal, and I hope to have him available for this final league fixture. Last season he scored 10 goals, as he’s a quality box-to-box player.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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