"Stefano Pioli would have hoped for a birthday present on the pitch for his 60th birthday, but his former club, AC Milan, denied that wish. Whilst his time at San Siro came to an unfortunate ending, perhaps hindered by his overextended stay at the helm, no one views the Italian in a negative light. After all, he brought the 19th Scudetto and relit the fire in the Rossoneri."
"As Radio Rossonera recalls, 'Mister' was received well by those inside the stadium in his 500th Serie A game in charge. The fans paid homage to him, and showed him affection before the game kicked off, with a rendition of 'Pioli is on fire' even ringing around the Curva. Then, when his name was called in the lineups, he was cheered once again, similarly to how Massimiliano Allegri was cheered in Turin before the international break."
"Despite his team taking the lead, La Viola conceded two goals to the player that, perhaps, the Italian is most recognised for helping during his tenure, Rafael Leao. Another thing that makes sense, in football's own weird way. After the game, he spoke a lot about the game, but he was also asked about the team that had given San Siro a reason to cheer him. In Pioli-esque fashion, though, the focus was pushed onto others."
Stefano Pioli marked his 60th birthday while facing his former club AC Milan, who prevented a celebratory result. His tenure at San Siro ended awkwardly, possibly due to an overextended stay, but he remains respected for delivering AC Milan's 19th Scudetto and revitalising the club. Stadium fans honoured him in his 500th Serie A match in charge, chanting and cheering when his name was announced. His current team briefly led, but conceded twice to Rafael Leao, a player Pioli helped develop. After the match, Pioli spoke at length about the game while deflecting attention onto others.
Read at SempreMilan
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