Eljif Elmas nodded in a Piotr Zielinski corner after just five minutes and that proved the winner.
“What really made me happy was to see we didn't get too deep until the final five minutes, we kept the balance right even after taking the lead," Spalletti told DAZN.
“It became difficult in the final minutes when Olivier Giroud added his presence to the physicality of Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Physicality is fundamental in football, but we had chances to go 2-0 up, perhaps better than Milan's chances, and we played like a great team against a great opponent."
Spalletti continued: “If we had played out from the back better, we could've sent the three short strikers into space and really finish off the game, as Milan were losing their balance and had opened up for the long ball. Unfortunately, we didn't give them the service that they required and so didn't get the second goal.
“We wanted to press Milan when they start the moves, because otherwise Ibrahimovic can create something from the edge of the box.
“Aside from a few moments, we held the initiative well. Milan were aggressive and did not allow us to find spaces, but Stanislav Lobotka helped in the second half, because he has this way of turning back on himself in these tiny spaces and getting away.
“He's very much like David Pizarro, he makes you think he's turning one way and then immediately spins and goes the other. You can't catch him!
“I was pleased we worked so hard as a unit, that everyone was so eager to do something for Napoli. Players don't ask for anything, they put themselves at the disposal of the team.
“We were coming off two defeats, so enthusiasm risks dissipating and that can make it feel like your shirt is made of lead. But we did well to hold up under that pressure."
Need a VPN? Or seeking to switch? Then support Tribal Football by clicking here to sign up with our official partners NordVPN. Not only will you receive the best VPN experience, but also great discounts by signing up via Tribal Football. Thanks for your support!
