AC Milan vs Bologna Coppa Italia Final: Sergio Conceicao and Mike Maignan Show Confidence and Readiness in Press Conference

AC Milan’s Goalkeeper and Coach Express Hunger, Belief, and Calm Before the High-Stakes Showdown With Bologna.

AC Milan are gearing up for a defining night in Rome as they face Bologna in the Stadio Olimpic on Wednesday. At the pre-match press conference ahead of the much-awaited AC Milan vs Bologna clash in the Coppa Italia final, goalkeeper Mike Maignan and head coach Sergio Conceicao shared their thoughts. They certainly set the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested battle.

Both teams are determined to get their hands on the trophy after a long wait. Milan’s last Coppa Italia win was over two decades ago in 2003. Whereas, Bologna’s last win was in 1974 and this is their first final since then. Hence, none of the two teams will not take this match lightly. However, Rossoneri have put the message of confidence and readiness in the press conference.

The Coach’s mindset ahead of the big night 🔴⚫#MilanBologna #CoppaItaliaFrecciarossa #SempreMilan pic.twitter.com/UTNt3KPKCO
— AC Milan (@acmilan) May 13, 2025

Maignan: “We are very hungry”

Mike Maignan, Milan’s vocal leader between the posts, emphasized the team’s hunger for success. During the press conference, he not only spoke about their hunger for the trophy, but also stressed the importance of staying composed. He also reminded of Milan’s recent form to instill belief, saying:

“We are very hungry because we want to bring this trophy home, for all the Milan fans… We must not put too much pressure on ourselves. We need to keep the cool head that allowed us to get this far… Right now, we are in a good moment and we need to take advantage of it. Only tomorrow matters, and we have to be fully focused on this match.”

Also Read: AC Milan vs Bologna Head to Head: Who Holds the Edge Overall Head to Head?

Conceicao: “We are ready, concentrated”

Coach Sergio Conceicao echoed Maignan’s confidence and thoughts. He admitted that the team struggled early in this season, which has left them 8th in the Serie A table. However, they can still salvage the season with this trophy. Especially with their current surge in form which he also credited, saying:

“We are ready, concentrated on what we have to do. We have the chance to win another trophy and qualify for Europe after a difficult year… The group is ready, fit and together. We have improved, even though not consistently. There is belief in the squad.”

Also Read: Where To Watch AC Milan vs Bologna Today? Coppa Italia Final, TV Channel, Live Streaming, and More

The coach also spoke about his key personnel. Giving important updates on the squad, he confirmed that Rafael Leao is fit. However, he hasn’t hinted whether the winger will feature in the starting XI or not. Meanwhile, he iterated that Youssouf Fofana’s availability will be a late decision.

The Milan boss was jokingly asked about his personal striker choice. He answered, “Jović or Gimenez? I’m not saying. I haven’t even told them.” When asked about the pressure, Conceicao replied, “Feeling the pressure is normal, we are AC Milan. We’re pumped up and have no fear.”

Looking Ahead

For Milan, this is more than just a final. It’s a way for them to cap a turbulent season with silverware and secure a European berth along the way. Bologna, however, are coming well-prepared. They are suffering a dip in form in the league. However, with so much on the line, they will put up their best fight, setting the stage for a tightly contested finale.

AC Milan

Bologna

Coppa Italia

Coppa Italia Final

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.