AC Milan coach Sérgio Conceição is reshaping the club's approach by reviving pre-match retreats and introducing strict training routines.
Sérgio Conceição, the newly appointed head coach of AC Milan, is making waves at the club by reintroducing traditions and implementing fresh measures to optimize performance.
Fresh off winning the Italian Super Cup, a significant achievement early in his tenure, Conceição is now focused on setting a disciplined tone as the team prepares for its return to Serie A. One of his latest decisions is to bring back the practice of pre-match retreats, a tradition where players spend the night before games together at the Milanello training center. This will begin ahead of the match against Cagliari, scheduled for Saturday, January 11, at 7:45 PM.
The decision to reintroduce pre-match retreats is a return to a ritual that was discontinued during the Covid-19 pandemic. Neither of Conceição’s predecessors, Stefano Pioli nor Paulo Fonseca, opted to revive the practice. However, Conceição views it as a vital tool for ensuring the squad's complete focus and mental preparation ahead of important fixtures. The retreat aims to foster team unity, eliminate distractions, and create an environment where players can fully immerse themselves in tactical and psychological readiness.
Conceição’s approach to discipline and preparation extends beyond pre-match retreats. Since taking over at AC Milan, the Portuguese coach has instituted a series of rules and initiatives aimed at enhancing professionalism and performance. Among these is the mandatory use of shin guards during training sessions, a rule that reflects his emphasis on player safety and replicating match conditions in training. This measure has reportedly been well-received by the squad, as it minimizes injury risks while maintaining high-intensity practice standards.
Another notable change is the introduction of evening training sessions, a departure from the standard daytime routines. Conceição believes these sessions help players adapt to late-match conditions, particularly as many Serie A fixtures are played in the evening. The evening sessions also allow for more tactical drills under the kind of lighting and atmosphere players will experience during competitive matches, fostering familiarity and comfort in high-pressure situations.
Conceição’s rigorous approach was on full display ahead of Milan’s match against Juventus, where he scheduled double training sessions. These intensive preparations underline his commitment to thoroughness, ensuring players are not only physically but also tactically and mentally prepared for challenging opponents. His focus on attention to detail and work ethic has already begun to resonate with the squad, signaling a new era of professionalism at AC Milan.
A prime example of Conceição’s attention to detail came before the Italian Super Cup final against Inter Milan. On the eve of the game, he organized a late-night video analysis session at 9:30 PM. The session was designed to give players a final review of tactical instructions, opponent weaknesses, and potential scenarios they might face during the match. This meticulous preparation paid off, as Milan went on to lift the trophy, showcasing the early fruits of Conceição’s methods.
Conceição’s return to the traditions and discipline that once defined AC Milan is part of a broader strategy to restore the club to its former glory. By fostering a culture of accountability, unity, and unwavering focus, he aims to instill the winning mentality that has historically characterized Milan’s most successful eras. The decision to revive pre-match retreats, combined with his innovative and detail-oriented approach to training and preparation, reflects his vision of a team that is mentally and physically ready to compete at the highest level.
As Milan gears up for their clash against Cagliari, all eyes will be on how these changes manifest on the pitch. The match marks the beginning of an important phase in the Serie A campaign, and Conceição’s methods will undoubtedly be tested. However, with the confidence gained from their Super Cup triumph and the disciplined environment he is creating, AC Milan appears poised to rise to the challenges ahead.
