AC Milan manager Paulo Fonseca made it clear on Friday that reputations mean nothing when it comes to accountability, following his team’s disappointing 2-1 loss to Fiorentina.
With two straight defeats, including a 1-0 setback against Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League, Paulo Fonseca pulled no punches, criticizing both performances and the lack of discipline among his players.
The Milan coach expressed frustration, particularly over the handling of penalties in the loss to Fiorentina. Both Theo Hernández and Tammy Abraham failed to convert from the spot, despite Christian Pulisic being Milan’s designated penalty taker.
“I don’t understand why Pulisic didn’t take them,” Paulo Fonseca said. “We have rules, and those rules were broken.”
Adding to the chaos, Theo Hernández was sent off in stoppage time after arguing with the referee, capping off a disastrous night for Milan. The international break came at the right time, according to Fonseca, who admitted he needed some distance from his players.
“Good to Have a Break”
“I was so angry after that match in Florence, it was probably better I didn’t see anyone,” Fonseca revealed in Friday’s press conference ahead of their clash with Udinese. “Training was light with most players away on international duty, and those who returned yesterday had a lot to answer for.”
The Fiorentina loss sparked criticism from fans and media, with many questioning Fonseca’s control of the dressing room. But the Portuguese manager dismissed those concerns, emphasizing his direct approach to solving problems.
“Problems? We Face Them.”
Paulo Fonseca was defiant about his handling of internal issues. “We have problems, but we don’t hide from them. I confront them head-on. I don’t care about anyone’s name or status—if someone makes a mistake, they take responsibility.”
Fonseca also stressed the importance of team spirit, saying he has no tolerance for players who put themselves above the group.
“If a player doesn’t respect the team’s spirit, it’s going to be hard for me to keep him around.”
With Milan sitting sixth in Serie A, five points behind league leaders Napoli, and having lost both of their Champions League matches so far, the pressure on Paulo Fonseca is mounting. However, the coach brushed off suggestions that he needs to prove his leadership abilities.
“Not an Actor, Just a Coach”
“I don’t perform for anyone. I’m not an actor who needs to show something to the cameras,” Fonseca said. “I’ve been consistent since day one. If anyone has doubts, ask the players—they know exactly who I am.”
Milan now prepares for a crucial home match against Udinese on Saturday, where anything less than a victory could further complicate Paulo Fonseca’s position. The coach insisted that his focus remains on improving the squad and not on the noise around him.
“We are not perfect, and we have to fix things. But together, we’ll get through it.”
