With three consecutive ties, ranked 13th in the standings and a complicated challenge on the horizon, Milan prepares for their away match against Sassuolo.
Opposite moods for the two squads, as the rossoneri have not won since August 31 while the neroverdi have won their past two matches. When speaking with the press, Gennaro Gattuso underlined the potential pitfalls of the match at Mapei Stadium, asking for determination and concentration from his players: "Sassuolo will give a lot of trouble and will play high, we must pay attention. We need to find the right tranquility, we're playing well but have been unable to win. This is, without a doubt, a weight on our backs. We're paying a big price for what has happened. Nevertheless, I do not have intentions to look for alibis or say that we've been unlucky. Scoldings after Empoli? We deserved to win because of how we played, but we need to close out our matches."
The rossonero manager then spoke on the condition of Higuain: "It's still bothering him and to risk losing him for several months does not make much sense, we'll have to evaluate him well. The last word will be up to him, but if he's not 100% then it's useless to try. It's not that I don't want to take a risk, it's that he isn't completely well and playing could make it worse. Suso-Bonaventura or Suso-Castillejo up front? We'll see. You can also say that Cutrone has some physical problems, he's a player that I admire a lot and he works 4-5 hours in the morning to get better. He's an example for everyone. Unfortunately, Borini also has problems with his ankle, we'll see how he is. The 11 that play will have to invent something. Regarding Suso, he has great qualities and if he continues to play like he is, a goal will come."
Gattuso then spoke on a close relationship with Milan leadership: "In a difficult moment regarding results, having them close is a pleasure. They make me feel at ease and we talk without looking for any shortcuts, I'd like to give them more victories. There's disappointment, but our presentations are there and sooner or later the wins will come. We need to concentrate and work to not allow goals. I hope that a victory comes soon and this team can unleash itself; we're paying the price for not winning games."
As the wins do not arrive, the ghost of Conte lingers, but does not worry Gattuso: "I cannot think about Conte or who would come. I work for Milan and I don't give anything to anyone. I make the decisions and I'm the first person responsible. If the results do not arrive, it's right that the club takes action, but I feel that leadership is confident in me and I only need to worry about winning games. Those who decide will be the others, but I must work with professionalism and commitment."
