AC Milan midfielder Sandro Tonali admits he's close to coach Stefano Pioli.

The pair have a strong relationship with Tonali playing his best football under the Rossonero coach.

Recalling his move from Brescia to Milan, the midfielder told DAZN: "The first days were a frenzy. The first year was difficult: dividing being a fan and player it wasn't easy, but after a period of adjustment I made it.

"At the beginning it was a burden to wear this shirt, I was in a place where I had to try not to disappoint. I was scared, I came from Brescia, everything was different, I too changed with difficulty and with some obstacles, but with Pioli's help I overcame everything.

"I spoke a lot with the coach. He helped me so much. And now he is doing the same with other players who are going through what I went through. I never thought I couldn't make it, playing with an empty stadium helped me in the beginning. Now in Saint Lucia I would ask for the Champions League final. To win it clearly..."