Stefano Pioli has revealed the moment that he realised his AC Milan side could go on and win the 2021-22 Scudetto.

Milan were not the favourites to win the league going into the campaign, but there was glory at the end of it. The historic triumph ended an 11-year league title drought dating back to 2010-11, as Pioli led the Rossoneri to an 86-point season.

The title was officially clinched on the final matchday of the season – 22 May 2022 – with a comfortable 3–0 away victory against Sassuolo. A brace from Olivier Giroud and a goal from Franck Kessié all came before the break to start the party early, and it was the culmination of a journey.

Pioli gave an interview to this morning’s edition of Corriere dello Sport in which he shed some light on that memorable campaign, with his words relayed by MilanNews.

How much has stayed with you from that title win?

“A lot. It was the pinnacle of our journey, and above all, 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 did you realise the team could do it?

“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.”

What was Ibrahimovic’s role?

“We started aiming for the title in January when Zlatan and Kjaer arrived, two completely different leaders. 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.”