Allegri admits ‘fatigue’ is impacting Milan and defends ‘important’ Gimenez

AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri believes that his side should be ‘happy’ after the Atalanta draw, but must still improve at both ends.

Milan took the lead on the night after just four minutes, when a corner wasn’t properly cleared and it allowed Samuele Ricci to volley in via a deflection off Ederson. That lead wouldn’t last though as Ademola Lookman broke his duck for the season with a powerful shot.

It was an equaliser that Atalanta deserved having dominated large parts of the first half. After the break, neither side were able to force a winner though the performance from the Rossoneri did improve.

Allegri headed for the press conference room at the New Balance Arena after speaking to DAZN, and he gave more thoughts on how the game went. MilanNews transcribed his comments.

Did you expect this kind of a game?

“We made a few technical mistakes, both due to fatigue and Atalanta’s strength. This led to a rather subdued first half where we conceded an avoidable goal. We improved a lot in the second half, where we had some rather favourable situations.

“I told the boys that we need to maintain our balance. We have to move forward as we always have despite the difficulties we may encounter. Now we need to recharge, but the boys should be happy tonight.”

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

What happened to Leao in the first half?

“He had a hip problem against Pisa. He wasn’t feeling great tonight, and the substitute up front [Loftus-Cheek] did very well. Winning games is always difficult, but I’m pleased with the team’s spirit. Playing with humility and respect, knowing that to win, you have to do it at home.”

What’s needed to improve?

“We need to focus on conceding fewer goals, just as we need to improve up front.”

How crucial could the Loftus Cheek-Nkunku partnership be?

“They definitely contributed a lot, and we saw some very important chances that we could have capitalised on. I’m very pleased not only with them, but with the entire team.”

Gimenez still hasn’t scored, what does he need to do to improve?

“He’s an important player for Milan. He’s giving us a big hand defensively. I’m convinced he needs to focus on working hard and the goals will come. Together, we can only move forward.”