Milan coach Paulo Fonseca and his staff implemented a unique motivational strategy in the locker room at San Siro ahead of the derby against Inter.
They left messages featuring the word “courage” translated into several languages, aiming to inspire the players before this critical match.
On Sunday, the Rossoneri claimed victory over their city rivals, which was particularly significant as it marked the end of a six-game losing streak against Inter.
This win not only boosted team morale but also solidified Fonseca’s position as head coach at the club, alleviating some of the pressure he faced.
La Gazzetta dello Sport reported on this motivational tactic, revealing that the messages were tailored to each player’s language and placed above their seats in the dressing room.
This thoughtful gesture was designed to foster a sense of unity and resilience among the players, reinforcing the idea that they could overcome their previous struggles against Inter.
In addition to these motivational messages, Fonseca’s tactical decisions played a crucial role in the victory.
He opted for a 4-4-2 formation that took Inter by surprise, featuring key players Alvaro Morata and Tammy Abraham in the starting lineup. This unexpected approach proved effective and contributed to the team’s overall performance.
As a result of this victory, the Rossoneri have secured eight points from their first five matches in the league.
They currently sit three points behind the table leaders, Torino, which keeps them competitive in the Serie A standings. Looking ahead, Milan is set to host Lecce at San Siro for their next match this Friday, and they will aim to build on their recent success.
Fonseca’s combination of psychological support through motivational messages and strategic tactical planning not only instilled confidence in the players but also showcased the importance of mental preparation in high-stakes matches.
His ability to adapt and motivate reflects a promising direction for the team as they strive for better results in the upcoming games.