A 60th birthday without a present: How Pioli’s San Siro return went

Stefano Pioli would have hoped for a birthday present on the pitch for his 60th birthday, but his former club, AC Milan, denied that wish.

Whilst his time at San Siro came to an unfortunate ending, perhaps hindered by his overextended stay at the helm, no one views the Italian in a negative light. After all, he brought the 19th Scudetto and relit the fire in the Rossoneri.

Pioli’s evening

As Radio Rossonera recalls, ‘Mister’ was received well by those inside the stadium in his 500th Serie A game in charge. The fans paid homage to him, and showed him affection before the game kicked off, with a rendition of ‘Pioli is on fire’ even ringing around the Curva.

Then, when his name was called in the lineups, he was cheered once again, similarly to how Massimiliano Allegri was cheered in Turin before the international break. However, that was the end of the niceties.

Images: AC Milan + Paolo Bruno/Getty Images

Despite his team taking the lead, La Viola conceded two goals to the player that, perhaps, the Italian is most recognised for helping during his tenure, Rafael Leao. Another thing that makes sense, in football’s own weird way.

After the game, he spoke a lot about the game, but he was also asked about the team that had given San Siro a reason to cheer him. In Pioli-esque fashion, though, the focus was pushed onto others.