MILAN – Stefano Pioli believes his fledging Inter side may have passed an important threshold in their development this evening against Genoa.
"It was very important for us to win and this victory, which was achieved through hard work, can be an important stepping stone in our development," he declared after the match.
The Nerazzurri coach also explained the reasoning behind his choice of formation: "We wanted to put Genoa under pressure, dominate the play and take advantage of the three-on-threes in attack," Pioli continued. "We didn't perform well in the first 30 minutes and had problems in a couple of situations where we should have been more focused.
"Nevertheless, today it was fundamental to get the win. There's still a long way to go this season and we want to go into the Christmas break higher up in the table. We can't be satisfied with what we've done so far. We have the duty to give it our all in the knowledge that we can improve much more.
"I think I've had a good effect on the atmosphere," Pioli said about the squad, "and we're working hard in the right fashion to take advantage of the potential we have. However, right now only the facts matter: we're playing for a great club and we have to give it our all.
"We have to work hard to get our confidence back, but it's normal that good results restore a sense of calm and self-belief. It's still a delicate moment but I'm seeing a positive attitude and the desire to take back the position we deserve. We want to close the gap on those above us and honour the shirt that we're wearing."
The head coach wrapped up his post-match analysis with some comments on individual players, both on and off the pitch this evening.
"Barbosa? He's working well and proving that he has quality in his locker. Right now, however, my aim is to find balance and more confidence. I always try to work for the good of the team by choosing the best players to win the contest. Gabriel has the tools to grow; Inter have made a big investment and it will bring fruit.
"Joao Mario obviously plays better further forward, where he can show all his ability. Nevertheless, he's got important attributes that he needs to bring to the table in defence as well. He has everything to become an all-round midfielder."
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