Portugal Colonial - Maignan 'serene and strong' despite abuse, says AC Milan coach

"He's also proud of the support he's received from his club but also from the whole football world," Pioli told his press conference on the eve of Milan's home game with Bologna on Saturday. "He has trained very well this week."

Last Sunday, at Udinese, fans racially abused the France goalkeeper.

Maignan walked off the pitch, followed by his team-mates. The match resumed after a five-minute break and Milan went on to win 3-2.

Udinese were ordered to play one match behind closed doors, but have said they will appeal. They also banned for life five fans identified as having abused Maignan.

"Udinese behaved impeccably in handling the situation and the sanctions," said Pioli.

"Ninety-nine-point-nine percent of people go to the stadium to experience a moment of sport, to exult, to encourage the players and to show passion. But there are things that cannot be accepted, and the reactions were the right ones on the part of our club and everyone. We had to react firmly."

P.Cavaco--PC