Why is the Roma-Milan clash’s outcome crucial for Stefano Pioli?

Tonight’s Europa League quarter-final second-leg clash between Roma and Milan holds considerable importance for both sides. Progressing in European competitions replenishes the economic factor of clubs and makes them more affluent approaching the transfer market. Apart from the financial and silverware aspect, the Roma-Milan match might be the decider for Stefano Pioli’s future. 

The Rossoneri management has laid out a number of factors based on which they will decide on the future of head coach Stefano Pioli. While Milan are still in firm contention to finish as Serie A runners-up, the club view this season as a mediocre one despite the signings made at the start of it. 

Departing from Coppa Italia earlier this campaign has laid down the first nail in the coffin of Pioli’s tenure as manager. Performing inconsistently mid-season and leaving Inter substantial breathing room to grab the Scudetto are the arguments against which the 58-year-old manager needs to defend himself. However, he can still save his job by clinching the Europa League as the club hierarchy does not want to end with a trophyless season. 

Daniele De Rossi will be without pressure ahead of this match as Roma have committed to keeping him as the manager next season despite tonight’s result. The Giallorossi will have the home crowd cheering for them to defend the one-goal lead from the first leg while their opponents Milan will feel contrasting emotions both on the pitch and on the sidelines. 

An enormous attacking approach is predicted from Stefano Pioli tonight as he prepares his players to overturn the deficit and progress to the semi-finals of the competition. Pioli is aware that winning the Europa League might just be enough to save his managerial role from a sack and even if he goes out, he gets to keep his head held high. 

Trambak Bhattacherjee | GIFN