Conceição on Milan's resounding derby win: 'Above all, my wife is happy'
AC Milan have endured a turbulent and frustrating season in Serie A, one that has left fans and pundits questioning the consistency and direction of the club.
Currently languishing in ninth place, the Rossoneri are a massive twenty points adrift of the joint leaders, Inter and Napoli a gap that tells the story of a campaign filled with missed opportunities, injuries, and underwhelming performances. However, amid the struggles, there has been one consistent highlight: their dominance over city rivals Internazionale.
On Wednesday night, Milan once again rose to the occasion when it mattered most, delivering a stunning and emphatic 0-3 victory over Inter in the latest edition of the Derby della Madonnina. The result not only silenced critics but also reignited hopes of a more positive end to the season, with the prospect of lifting another trophy now firmly in sight.
It was the fifth time this season that Inter failed to overcome Milan, a fact that has turned the traditional balance of power in the city on its head. Despite Milan's recent 2-1 defeat to Atalanta just days earlier, head coach Sérgio Conceição’s side looked revitalized and fully prepared for the challenge. The derby showcased not just tactical discipline, but a hunger and determination that has at times been lacking in their league campaign.
"I could already feel this coming during the match against Atalanta," said Conceição, reflecting on the team’s response. "Even though we lost that game, I saw signs that the players were ready to turn things around."
Conceição, who took charge with a reputation for instilling resilience and fight in his teams, has started to see his philosophy take hold. "The small details are important," he emphasized. "Our mentality was already in the right place, both defensively and offensively. But tonight we improved a few things, and that took us to a truly top level. This team has a lot of quality, but also the humility to want to win at any cost."
The match itself was a display of efficiency and composure from Milan. Goals from key players who had been under scrutiny for inconsistent form showed that the squad still possesses the spark to perform under pressure. Defensively, Milan were solid, keeping Inter’s high-powered attack at bay and frustrating their rivals throughout the ninety minutes.
With this resounding 0-3 victory, Milan not only reinforced their hold over Inter this season but also boosted their chances of salvaging what has otherwise been a difficult year. Conceição pointed to the bigger picture post-match, reminding everyone that success is still within reach. Having already lifted the Supercoppa, Milan are now preparing for the Coppa Italia final, a chance to add more silverware and give fans something to celebrate.
"We are staying grounded. We haven’t achieved anything yet, but we are going to play a final," Conceição stated. "By the end of the season, we have the chance to make everything right."
When asked about the team’s development and ambitions, the Portuguese coach remained optimistic. "We have more quality than we have shown so far," he admitted. "In the past few weeks, we have also worked very well. I’m a fan of this sport. Bologna or Empoli in the final, I have no preference. I mainly think my wife is happy, because I’ll be coming home happy soon."
Conceição’s light-hearted comment about his wife was a reminder of the personal side of the game, yet it also reflected the relief and joy that such a victory brings, not just to the club, but to those around it. The derby win could serve as a turning point, not only in terms of results but in restoring belief among players and supporters.
Looking ahead, Milan still have challenges to face in the league, but the focus is clearly shifting towards cup success. While Champions League qualification through Serie A looks unlikely, ending the season with two trophies could reshape perceptions and provide a strong foundation for the future. For now, the city of Milan belongs to the Rossoneri, and Sérgio Conceição’s men have every reason to believe that the best is yet to come.
