Pioli Reveals Turning Point That Sparked Milan’s Scudetto Belief and Hails Four Key Figures

FolioPitch.com – 24 October 2026 | Stefano Pioli has opened up about the moment he truly believed AC Milan could end their long wait for a Serie A title, and in doing so, Pioli reveals when his Milan Scudetto belief started and praises four key figures who were instrumental in the triumph. The Rossoneri clinched the 2021-22 Scudetto on the final day of the season with a 3-0 victory at Sassuolo, ending an 11-year league title drought dating back to 2010-11.

In an interview with Corriere dello Sport, Pioli reflected on the campaign that culminated in an 86-point season and a historic triumph. “It was the pinnacle of our journey,” he said. “It left me with wonderful relationships with the players. I spoke to them the other day, too, and they wished me a happy birthday. It was an experience full of emotions and rewards, but also of ups and downs. Milanello is a truly special environment. The support of Ricky [Massara] and Paolo [Maldini] was fundamental.”

When asked about the exact moment he realised his team could go all the way, Pioli pointed to the away victory against Lazio in Rome. “When we won in Rome against Lazio, the energy we put on the pitch, we released something powerful. At Milanello, we thought it could really be our season.” That match, played in front of a hostile crowd, served as a catalyst for belief within the squad and staff.

Pioli also highlighted the impact of four key figures who shaped the title run: Zlatan Ibrahimović, Simon Kjær, Ricky Massara, and Paolo Maldini. “We started aiming for the title in January when Zlatan and Kjaer arrived, two completely different leaders,” Pioli explained. “Zlatan was impactful, a leader with character and physicality, who changed the team’s attitude. He raised the level of training, the level of focus, and he instilled a mentality. Simon was a quiet leader, someone who would talk to the players individually. A coach’s job is made easier by the presence of players like that. It’s easier to win when you have personalities like that.”

The attacking duo of Ibrahimović and Kjær provided a balance of vocal inspiration and calm guidance, while the sporting direction of Massara and Maldini ensured the squad was built with the right mix of talent and character. Their combined influence created an environment where success became inevitable.

As Pioli reveals when his Milan Scudetto belief started and praises four key figures, it is clear that the triumph was not merely a product of tactical brilliance but also of strong leadership and unity. The Rossoneri’s journey from underdogs to champions was marked by resilience, and the memories of that season continue to resonate with the coach and his players.

“I spoke to them the other day, too, and they wished me a happy birthday,” Pioli added, underscoring the lasting bond he shares with his former squad. That connection, forged through shared sacrifices and victories, remains a source of pride for the Italian tactician.

In conclusion, Pioli’s reflections offer a fascinating insight into the mental and emotional turning points that define a championship season. Once again, Pioli reveals when his Milan Scudetto belief started and praises four key figures, cementing the legacy of a title that will forever be etched in the club’s history. As Milan fans look back on that memorable campaign, the words of their former coach serve as a reminder that belief, leadership, and camaraderie are the true foundations of success.