Pavlovic Admits Cisse Surprised Him and Highlights Three Things Milan Must Always Do

FolioPitch.com – 16 October 2026 | In the aftermath of AC Milan‘s commanding victory over Salzburg, defender Strahinja Pavlovic addressed the media, revealing his astonishment at the performance of young forward Alphadjo Cisse and outlining the three fundamental principles that Milan must uphold. The match, which ended in a resounding win for the Rossoneri, served as a potential blueprint for the team’s future success. Pavlovic admits Cisse surprised him and highlights three things Milan must always do, a sentiment that resonated with fans and analysts alike.

Following a disappointing defeat to Benfica in their opening fixture, Milan faced immense pressure to deliver against Salzburg. They responded emphatically, with Cisse netting a hat-trick and Goncalo Ramos adding another goal. The defensive unit, led by Pavlovic, maintained a clean sheet, ensuring a comprehensive victory. The Serbian international was visibly pleased with the outcome and took the opportunity to share his thoughts on the game’s significance.

Speaking to Sky Italia, Pavlovic expressed his admiration for Cisse’s impact. “No, I have to be honest,” he said when asked if he expected such a performance from the young striker. “He’s a really good guy, he works hard every day and I’m very happy for him.” Cisse’s hat-trick not only secured the win but also highlighted the depth of talent within Milan’s squad. The 18-year-old’s clinical finishing and movement off the ball were a revelation, and Pavlovic’s comments underscore the collective surprise and delight at his emergence.

Pavlovic then turned his attention to the broader lessons from the match. “Tonight was a good match, perhaps it’s a model for how we should play,” he explained. “We must always win duels, create chances, and not make mistakes in front of goal. These are the three things we must always do. If we do that, we’re strong.” These three pillars—winning duels, creating chances, and being clinical in front of goal—form the foundation of Milan’s approach moving forward. Pavlovic admits Cisse surprised him and highlights three things Milan must always do, reinforcing the idea that consistency in these areas is key to the team’s success.

The victory over Salzburg was particularly satisfying given the pressure Milan faced after the Benfica loss. The team showed resilience and attacking flair, with Cisse’s hat-trick stealing the headlines. However, Pavlovic was quick to emphasize the importance of the collective effort. “We have had a few problems in the last few games in front of goal, not creating many chances,” he noted. “Tonight we had a lot of them, thanks to good football.” This shift in attacking output is a promising sign for Milan, who have struggled to convert opportunities in recent matches.

Defensively, Milan were solid, limiting Salzburg’s chances and securing a clean sheet. Pavlovic and his defensive partners were rarely troubled, a testament to their concentration and organization. While the spotlight often shines on the attackers, the Serbian defender’s contribution was equally vital. His leadership at the back and ability to read the game ensured that Milan could build from a position of strength.

The match also served as a platform for Cisse to announce himself on the European stage. His hat-trick was a statement of intent, and his teammates were quick to praise him. Pavlovic admits Cisse surprised him and highlights three things Milan must always do, but he also acknowledged the young forward’s potential. “He’s a really good guy, he works hard every day,” Pavlovic said. “I’m very happy for him.” Such endorsements from senior players can be invaluable for a young talent’s development.

Looking ahead, Milan will look to build on this performance. The three principles outlined by Pavlovic—winning duels, creating chances, and avoiding mistakes in front of goal—will be crucial in their upcoming fixtures. If they can consistently execute these, they will be a formidable opponent for any team. The victory over Salzburg not only lifted the mood but also provided a template for success.

In conclusion, Pavlovic’s post-match comments offer insight into Milan’s mindset after a crucial win. The surprise at Cisse’s brilliance and the emphasis on the three fundamental aspects of their game reflect a team that is learning and growing. Pavlovic admits Cisse surprised him and highlights three things Milan must always do, and if the Rossoneri can adhere to these principles, they may well be on the path to a successful season. The challenge now is to maintain this level of performance and turn it into a consistent habit.