Pioli explains why he chose to leave Italy after Milan exit: “Accepted very willingly” | OneFootball

Stefano Pioli’s time at AC Milan came to an end in the summer, and today, the former head coach has detailed why he chose a move away from Italy.

Looking back on last season, Pioli was under pressure for effectively the whole season, with the 5-1 defeat to Inter defining the season as a whole. However, the derby was just one of several humiliations suffered by Milan last season.

We can look at the elimination from the Europa League as a good starting point, whilst also looking at the failure to steady the ship after the derby loss. However, it could be argued that these problems ran deeper than Pioli.

Nevertheless, it was the right time to move on from the Italian head coach, and although fans feel like the Rossoneri have taken a side step rather than one forward, the management believe their decision was the right one – although recent events have been addressed.

Today, Pioli addressed his decision to move away from Italy after his dismissal, and his words to SportItalia have been relayed by Milan Press.

“I was very happy when Al-Nassr contacted me, they sought me out knowing that I wanted to start a new experience compared to the 20 as a coach in Italy. Al-Nassr is an important and ambitious club. When I spoke to the management I felt confidence and a desire to grow, a desire to improve. I accepted very willingly, with enthusiasm and a desire to do well.”