Allegri reveals what got him red card vs. Lazio and praises Milan after gritty win

AC Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri has revealed what he told the referee Giuseppe Collu to earn a red card in the win over Lazio.

Milan made it back-to-back wins in the league as they prevailed 1-0 against Lazio to move top of the table, while waiting for the result of Roma-Napoli on Sunday night. Rafael Leao got the only goal of the game, firing in a perfect Fikayo Tomori cross from close range early in the second half.

In the dying moments of the game there was some controversy as a penalty appeal for a handball on Strahinja Pavlovic went to a VAR review. Allegri was shown a red card for something that he said to the referee, but that was before he decided not to give a spot kick as he adjudged there had been a foul by a Lazio man.

Allegri’s post-Lazio assessments

Allegri spoke to Sky straight after the full-time whistle to give his reaction to what was another hard-fought three points for his side, with MilanNews transcribing his words.

How did you experience the last few minutes?

“There was some confusion. It wasn’t easy for the referee to make the decision after he was called to VAR. On the match: in the first half, we struggled because Lazio pressed hard and didn’t provide passing lines. In the second half, we revved up the pace, and they slowed down, with favourable situations even before the goal.”

Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

Leao said that dreaming is free…

“We have to keep working, maintain this humility, and the desire to snatch the ball from the opponent: play as a team like the boys are doing, there’s a general enthusiasm among the fans too. Credit goes to the boys who give it their all on the pitch and don’t hold back.”

Is Leao learning the No.9 role?

“At Lille he was a centre-forward. Tonight he had a beautiful header. When the ball is out wide, he attacks the goal and has the opportunity to roam.”

How valuable is Rabiot?

“They’re all important. Adrien, even compared to his last year at Juve, has improved a lot. He has significant physical strength and is a team player. If you want to fight for the top, you need a team player.

“Even Gabbia, Pavlovic, are all guys who put their heart into what they do. There are players with different drives, he is one of those.”

What did you say to the referee?

“I just told him, ‘Damn, every time you’re here, sh** always happens’. Because he was the referee against Cremonese (laughs). I didn’t offend him at all.”