Stefano Pioli has admitted that he is not enjoying seeing his old club AC Milan going through such a difficult moment, while also speaking about the late Davide Astori.
Milan made the decision to part ways with Pioli after nearly five years at the club following the conclusion of the 2023-24 season, and it would be fair to say that things have not gone to plan.
His replacement Paulo Fonseca lasted less than 25 games before being given his marching orders, and Sergio Conceicao is doing even worse in terms of points per game pace.
On a day like today though matters on the field feel so inconsequential. It is eight years to the day since Astori passed away, someone that Pioli was incredibly close to.
The current Al-Nassr boss spoke to Sky Italia about what the defender meant to him and to Fiorentina, also commenting on Milan, with his comments relayed by Calciomercato.com.
This date carries a special but sad significance…
“It is impossible to forget this date. It is equally impossible not to have positive memories of what Davide was. A fantastic guy, with whom I was lucky enough to share something important, who left his mark on all of us.”
You have a tattoo dedicated to Astori…
“Yes, I carry it with me. Davide is inside me not only for this symbol, but because I immediately understood that he would be an incredible person to work with and a great captain.
“We could have direct but sincere discussions: his sincerity and his contagious desire brought all of us forward. We spoke with many of his former teammates to carry forward Davide’s values.”
What do you carry with you?
“His smile. I had an office where the players had to walk past me to go to breakfast. He was always the first and always had a smile on his shoulder. I carry his positivity inside me.”
How difficult was it to go through?
“It was difficult and complicated, we lived through an unimaginable situation. We supported each other and overcame the difficulties by following Davide’s example. It wasn’t my merit, but the players, the fans and the club. We managed to keep his name high, it wasn’t easy.”
Why did you pick him as captain?
“There were two very strong personalities, him and Milan Badelj. I chose Davide by speaking to both of them because he knew everything that needed to be done.
“From the first meeting I had positive feelings. He was the first to find solutions to the difficulties. He was a true captain, responsible and present.”
Are you sorry to see Milan in this state?
“Very much. Of course I’m sorry… I’m far away at the moment, but I’m sorry for my players, for the fans, because something magical and exciting was created in Milan. I hope to find that energy again.”
