De Winter explains why Milan went with a back four vs. Lecce: “Did what the coach said”

Koni De Winter has revealed that AC Milan set up with a four-man defence against Lecce to try and exploit one key aspect.

It was important that Milan bounced back after drawing their two most recent Serie A games before losing to Benfica in their Europa League opener on Wednesday night, and they did so with a commanding 3-0 victory over Lecce at San Siro.

Christian Pulisic got his first Milan goal of the calendar year to break the deadlock in the first half. Then, Adrien Rabiot and Diego Moreira each scored in the second half to ensure that the Rossoneri go into the break with a bit more peace.

After the final whistle De Winter spoke in the press conference room at San Siro to offer his thoughts on what was a much more positive night for the team. MilanNews relayed what he had to say.

Why did you line up with a back four?

“We started with a back four to make Chukwu a little more attacking. It went well, we controlled the game and won.”

What happened at Milanello the past few days?

“Nothing. We followed the coach’s plan. In my opinion, we could have done better, not the coach. We gave everything on the pitch and did what the coach said, and we won.”

How important is the coach’s trust?

“Very important. It helps a lot to have the coach’s trust. That’s how football works, in my opinion. You can see players when they’re confident.”