AC Milan's coach Massimiliano Allegri appeared in a press conference after the 1-0 victory against Lecce at San Siro, during the 21st round of the Italian league.

Rossoneri had dropped many points this season against lower-ranked teams, including back-to-back draws with Genoa and Fiorentina, and they nearly ran into the wall again in goalkeeper Falcone, who made some incredible saves. But the entrance of Volkrog changed the equation, as he needed only three minutes to score with a clever header, capitalizing on Alexis Saelemaekers' cross.

With this goal, Milan recorded their sixth goal scored by substitutes in the league this season, the highest number among Serie A teams. He said, "In modern football, with the allowance of five substitutions, changes become crucial. At certain moments, a player like Välkrogh gives you a boost inside the penalty area."

Regarding the possibility of starting Vollkrug alongside Pulisic and Leao, the coach explained: "We have many possible combinations with Vollkrug, Pulisic, Leao, and Nkunku, but we need greater precision in the final pass, more patience in building up, and to be faster and sharper without rushing in the final third."

He continued: "Close matches are more mentally exhausting than physically. Gashari was good at passing and work rate, and Richie delivered a strong performance in the mezzala role. When you play with 15 players instead of 11, it becomes easier for everyone."

With this victory, Milan strengthened their hold on second place, moving three points ahead of third-placed Napoli, remaining three points behind the leader Inter, and extending the gap to seven points over fifth-placed Juventus.

The coach concluded: "We are halfway towards the goal we set. Once we mathematically secure a top-four finish, we can think beyond that. Currently, a Champions League spot requires around 74 points, while the title race may reach 86–88 points. These are simple calculations."