Allegri bats away mercato question and reiterates focus on ‘lifesaver’ objective

Massimiliano Allegri refused to be drawn on a question about whether he wants the management to give him January reinforcements.

Milan bowed out of the Supercoppa Italiana at the semi-final stage after losing against the Italian champions in Riyadh. Goals from David Neres before the break and Rasmus Hojlund just after the hour mark condemned the Rossoneri to an early journey home in an eventual 2-0 defeat.

The likes of Koni De Winter, Ardon Jashari, Pervis Estupinan and Christopher Nkunku all struggled in the game and this has led to stories in the media this morning questioning the summer window, as well as suggestions that the coach wants a striker and a central defender.

Allegri spoke to the reporters present at the King Saud University Stadium after the defeat to Napoli in his post-match press conference, with his comments relayed by MilanNews.

Every game is different. What are the differences compared to the league? Was there any disagreement with the Napoli bench?

“What happened was a matter of the pitch. Napoli deserved the win, defending better than us. In the last three games, we’ve conceded six goals and we need to improve. We need to work on this situation. The match could have changed at the start with an incident for us.”

Photo by Yasser Bakhsh/Getty Images

Are you lacking anything numerically in defence?

“Talking about the transfer market now is pointless. We need to focus on working hard and rebuilding a solid defense. Only then can we finish in the top four. Let’s focus on getting back into the game, then on Monday we’ll focus on Verona.”

Have the two eliminations tarnished the season?

“We’re disappointed, but we have a much bigger goal: to reach the top four. Getting into the Champions League right now is a lifesaver for the club because it allows you to make transfers and bring in money.

“Elimination must lead to growth for the team. The road to returning to the Champions League won’t be easy. There should be anger, but not disappointment.”

Do you need anything from the market for the attack?

“The club will take care of the mercato.”