May 11 (Reuters) – AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli said criticism and speculation are part of his job as he does not yet know if he will remain in charge next season.
Milan snapped a six-game winless streak with a convincing 5-1 victory over Cagliari on Saturday, but the pressure remains on the Italian coach, whose team is only aiming for second place in Serie A after rivals Inter of the city, became champion.
“We are a big club, there are high expectations, so fierce criticism is expected, just as enthusiastic praise is expected when you win,” Pioli told Sky Sport.
“That's part of the job, you have to accept everything or do a different profession.
“I try to help the team overcome difficult moments and play as well as possible, sometimes it worked and other times I was wrong.”
A section of Milan fans have been holding protests during matches, demanding clarity from the management about the club's plans after two seasons without titles.
The club ended their Europa League campaign in the quarter-finals last month losing to AS Roma.
“I am really sad about this situation, since we were very proud of creating that symbiosis with the fans, which transmitted positivity, energy and confidence,” said the 58-year-old coach.
“I haven't spoken to the club yet. We have two more rounds left, the season is not over yet.
“I hope that everyone in Milan can rediscover that harmony, enthusiasm and energy that helped us achieve things that perhaps no one thought were possible.” (Reporting by Janina Nuno Ríos in Mexico City; Editing by Alistair Bell)
