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Pioli: Milan deserved to go through against Man United

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AC Milan boss Stefano Pioli believes his side put in a strong performance and deserved to go through against Manchester United.

Stefano Pioli watched on in despair as AC Milan got knocked out of the Europa League by Manchester United.

A 1-1 draw at Old Trafford was followed by the return leg in Milan which saw Paul Pogba take centre-stage with the only goal of the game.

Given the injury crisis Milan had going into both legs, many feel it might have been a different story if they had their personal fit.

Stefano Pioli feels the same way and says his side’s exit is a disappointing one to take.

“It’s an elimination that really disappoints us, because over the two legs we played like a great team and should’ve scored in the first half” the coach told Sky Sport Italia.

“It’s a pity, we did so much to get here and the team deserved to continue, but we had to give it a little bit more. I don’t think we deserved to go out.”

“We are talking about a Manchester United side that reached the Europa League semi-final last season, that was in the Champions league group phase this term and two weeks ago beat Manchester City 2-0.”

“Over the two legs, we did so much right, but the two goals we conceded were more down to our own errors than their credit, that’s what is disappointing.”

“It becomes difficult for me to reproach my lads after two performances with heart, spirit, determination, courage and quality.”

“Now we have to get right back on track in Serie A.”

Following their Europa League exit, Pioli and Milan have only the Serie A left to contend for. The Rossoneri lead the way for a while but a woeful run of results saw them lose their grip at the top of the table to rivals Inter Milan.

Ahead of their next league outing with Fiorentina, Milan trail rivals and table-toppers by nine points.

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