When ever AC Milan face off against Sassuolo there seems to be an additional story at play, and this Saturday’s game at San Siro will be no different.
As this morning’s edition of Tuttosport (via MilanNews) recalls, games against Sassuolo have a special place in Stefano Pioli’s heart because he will remain forever linked to that particular opponent with two very positive memories.
The first dates back to July 2020 when he celebrated his renewal with Milan after a victory against them at the Mapei Stadium, at a time when Ralf Rangnick seemed almost certain to take over. The second is dated 22 May 2022, the day on which the Rossoneri won the Scudetto with a 3-0 victory.
Sassuolo arrive at San Siro on Saturday, but this time the risk is that the memory may not be so positive this time. On Saturday Pioli’s job is at risk and, contrary to our information, they claim that a defeat could lead to the dismissal of the coach.
Unfortunately for Pioli, however, the latest precedents at San Siro against Sassuolo are not at all good: three defeats in the last three games. In fact, the last time Milan beat the Neroverdi at home was back in the 2018-19 season.
Last year the 5-2 defeat against them at home was one of the lowest moments of the Diavolo’s season and came during the January crisis, which Pioli survived. This time a defeat of any kind could be enough to force the ownership to act.