AC Milan's Alvaro Morata expressed his joy and relief after the team secured a 2-1 victory against Juventus in the Supercoppa Italiana. The triumph marks Morata's first win under the new leadership of manager Sergio Conceição, who has invigorated the squad with fresh energy and tactics. Despite facing difficult conditions during the match, the Rossoneri's fighting spirit allowed them to turn the game around and earn the chance to compete for another trophy.
After the match, Morata spoke with Mediaset about the team's performance. "They scored against us with their first real chance," he explained, acknowledging the initial challenge the team faced. "We entered the second half knowing we had to turn things around. We took more risks and pushed more players forward, which created more opportunities for us." This determination to fight back highlighted the team's resilience, especially after struggling through the first half of the match.
The win also showcased the impact of Sergio Conceição on the team. Morata praised the coach for instilling confidence and intensity among the players. He stated, "He says we have quality and need to put intensity in our game; he has brought us energy, desire, and many new mechanisms. Now we can win a trophy." Conceição's ability to motivate and strategize has already proven beneficial for AC Milan, not only energizing the players but also restoring their competitive edge.
When asked about the importance of the Supercoppa trophy, Morata emphasized its significance, stating, "Like every trophy… You never know when it will be the last chance to win one. We enter Milanello every day and see the trophies the club has won, and we can add another. It's not the Champions League or the Scudetto, but it's still another piece of history." His belief stemmed from the rich history of AC Milan, which boasts numerous accolades, making every trophy claim significant for the squad.
Looking forward, the upcoming final against Inter could be another thrilling chapter for Milan. The rivalry is steeped in history, and Morata acknowledged the challenge. "We must be aware of the mental performance needed to tackle such matches. The right mindset will be pivotal against Inter. This isn't just about winning; it's about contributing to the legacy of Milan." With the team needing to recover quickly and refocus, Morata's call for unity and determination underlines the pressures and expectations they face.
Despite the challenges of today’s match and the demands of the upcoming final, Morata remains optimistic about Milan’s capabilities. "We are on the verge of something good; we have to do our best," he said. His confident words reflect the renewed spirit at AC Milan, ignited by Conceição's arrival and their recent success.
Overall, Morata's insights provide not just the perspective of a player pushing to add another trophy to Milan's illustrious collection but also showcase the hope and ambition shared by the entire squad. With every match played, each goal scored, and every opportunity seized, AC Milan continues to forge its path forward under the capable guidance of their new coach. The upcoming match against Inter is set to be not only a sporting contest but also another stepping stone for the Rossoneri heading back toward glory.