Giampaolo back at Marassi: “The fans will help us to go that extra mile”

We’re finally back at Marassi. After meeting president Massimo Ferrero, technical director Daniele Prade and sporting director Carlo Osti, Marco Giampaolo held a press conference ahead of AC Milan.

“We’re back at home in front of our own fans,” began the coach. “It will be nice for the supporters who have travelled a lot and supported us on the road.”

The coach was in no doubt as to the task his team face against AC Milan, especially after a busy week of fixtures. “I will pick the best possible side for this match,” revealed Giampaolo. “The best 11 from a technical, physical and tactical standpoint will start the game.

“AC Milan have a very clearly defined playing style, they’re technically strong and they move the ball well. We’ll need to produce a great performance and outdo ourselves. It will be tough to combat how they play.”

With so little time to prepare for the fixture following the midweek trip to Verona, Giampaolo has made the most of technology. “I’ve hammered them with video footage but I’ve tried to be as clear as possible. I know what we’ll face. The lads know what to do and now we just have to play the match. Besides the tactical battle, we’ll be helped by the heart and passion of the fans driving us on.

“We should have won at Verona based on what we produced,” said Giampaolo in reference to Wednesday night. “We’re not disappointed but rather rueful about not making the most of our chances in the second half. Now I’m over 50, after Samp I’d like to coach Inter before retiring and opening an academy in my hometown,” revealed Giampaolo on his future plans.

The head coach concluded with a word on the supporters. “I love to see travelling fans. It’s wonderful to see the Blucerchiati colours up and down the country. We need to go back to how it was in the past. No more restrictions on travelling supporters and then let’s see how they behave.”