‘In all aspects’ - AC Milan boss makes bold Newcastle United clam after Champions League draw

AC Milan boss Stefano Pioli felt his side were better than Newcastle United “in all aspect” despite playing out a goalless draw at the San Siro last night.

Newcastle and Milan met for their Champions League Group F opener and it was the Italian giants who were most disappointed with the stalemate.

Milan registered 25 shots at goal, nine of which Nick Pope saved, while the Magpies managed just six attempts. Sean Longstaff’s effort in stoppage time was the visitors’ only effort on target.

While Eddie Howe admitted to wanting more from his players in the final third, the Magpies head coach was full of praise for his defenders.

But Pioli argued Milan were far superior on the evening and deserved to win. Some sections of the Italian media also went as far to say Newcastle were lucky to claim a point.

“I feel very satisfied with the performance,” said Pioli. “We commanded and played the game far and wide, but we didn’t finish some rather simple occasions well.

“The opponent was strong but we certainly did better than them in all aspects, more intense and more qualitative. It’s a shame because starting the group well was important.

“We have the quality, we need more determination. We deserved to win, tonight we can go out with our heads held high knowing we can improve further.”

The two clubs meet again at St James’ Park in December in the final game of the group stage. Also in the group are Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund with the latter emerging as 2-0 winners yesterday.