Allegri stresses importance of defensive solidity: “We need to concede a certain number”

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Massimiliano Allegri once again stressed the important of the defensive record AC Milan have after recording another clean sheet.

It was not a vintage performance from Milan by any means, but Luka Modric was the match-winner just days after his 40th birthday. The midfielder swept home a cut-back from Alexis Saelemaekers right on 60 minutes to ensure a very hard-fought three points.

What will satisfy Allegri is that they restricted Bologna to not having a shot on target, despite the fact they had over 60% possession as per some sources. Back-to-back wins after the Cremonese debacle is certainly positive for the Rossoneri too.

Allegri spoke to DAZN after the final whistle but also to the journalists who gathered for his post-match press conference, with the comments relayed by MilanNews.

Is this the Milan you designed?

“If we want to finish in the top four, we need to concede a certain number of goals. We created chances and played a very good game. Even when Bologna had control, we didn’t concede anything and stayed organised.

“We’re growing, and there’s great participation. It was important to win, but we shouldn’t get too excited.”

Max Allegri MilanPhoto by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images

Is Modric a surprise even for you?

“Luka is a champion, above all else. And he’s also very humble, because he’s there for the team. We’re very happy to have him, I’m happy to coach him, and his teammates are happy to have him with them. He doesn’t make excuses, he doesn’t stop, it’s wonderful.”

We saw the jacket come off, what happened?

“I didn’t form any opinions, I didn’t review anything. If Fabbri at the VAR decided that the penalty wasn’t valid, it was right to disallow it.”

Juventus beat Inter 4-3, while Milan won 1-0. Which victory do you prefer?

“I prefer Milan’s victory. This isn’t a question of numbers. Some games go one way, others another. When Bologna attacked, we were careful not to disintegrate. But we shouldn’t get too excited. One small step at a time.”

Do you miss the Curva?

“We hope to have them as soon as possible. It will be a help to the whole team.”

You are above Inter…

“We’re only on matchday three. The season will get longer after the October break.”

How will you manage Gimenez?

“Santiago played like a team player. The last time he had the ball, he was a little tired and a little unfocused, but he has to stay calm because he’ll score goals. I think he had his best game since I arrived.”

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