Max Allegri acknowledged that Milan “nearly jeopardized all our hard work this season” after defeating Genoa, stating, “We haven’t accomplished anything yet” regarding the Champions League.
It was a tense match at Marassi, as the Rossoneri were aware at halftime that other results had pushed them out of Champions League contention.
Seeing this reality motivated them for the second half, leading to a breakthrough with a penalty converted by Christopher Nkunku.
Zachary Athekame secured the victory with a strike from the edge of the box, despite Genoa’s efforts through Johan Vasquez.
Allegri Felt the Weight of Milan’s Expectations
GENOA, ITALY – MAY 17: Massimiliano Allegri, head coach of AC Milan, watches the action before the Serie A clash against Genoa CFC at Stadio Luigi Ferraris. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
“There was immense pressure, and we were close to throwing away all that we have built this year,” Allegri shared with DAZN Italia.
“We still have work to do—one more game at home against Cagliari. We aim for victory then. I’m grateful to my players, who have to support me as we push through.”
“We have a week ahead to secure our goal. We’re pleased with our performance, especially with club representatives like Gerry Cardinale present today.”
Allegri was notably animated on the sidelines, particularly during the lengthy stoppage time, yet he kept his jacket on this time.
“The jacket stayed on because I was engrossed in the match,” he explained.
“We managed well during stoppages to keep Genoa at bay, and we had a chance to extend our lead to 3-1 through Pulisic. We’re looking to secure the win at home, especially after only earning one point in our last three games at San Siro.”
GENOA, ITALY – MAY 17: Massimiliano Allegri, head coach of Milan, reacts during the Serie A match against Genoa CFC at Stadio Luigi Ferraris. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
Players like Rafael Leao, Alexis Saelemaekers, and Pervis Estupinan were unavailable today, while Luka Modric returned to the bench just weeks after undergoing surgery for a facial fracture.
“I had full confidence in the substitutes to step up,” stated Allegri.
“Lately, we’ve been a bit chaotic and have conceded goals too easily, which isn’t our style. However, our defense was solid today, and fortune favored us as well.”
“Jashari performed admirably in a role he is becoming more comfortable in. Working with Luka Modric has been a delight; his dedication to the sport is inspiring. He was eager to play today, but I opted for Loftus-Cheek due to his aerial strength.”
“Modric is willing to support the team, setting a great example for aspiring players everywhere. Football is a beautiful game—sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, but the passion must remain constant.”
“Throughout my years of coaching champions, I’ve never seen one devoid of that love for the game.”
GENOA, ITALY – MAY 17: Lorenzo Colombo of Genoa battles with Strahinja Pavlovic of Milan for the ball during their Serie A match. (Photo by Simone Arveda/Getty Images)
This victory places Milan equal third with Roma, putting their Champions League fate in their hands; they need only to defeat Cagliari at San Siro next week.
Both teams have now moved above Juventus, who were shockingly defeated 2-0 at home by Fiorentina.
“We must remain vigilant until we reach the finish line. Gian Piero Gasperini has done an excellent job at Roma; it’s a challenging environment, and it marks a natural progression in his career,” Allegri concluded.