A stunning free kick by Balotelli after Philippe Mexes' opener secured the points for Milan, giving them their first win in their last six games in all competitions.
The controversial Balotelli was never far from the action and while he was booked for the 10th time in Serie A this season in the first-half, he peppered the Fiorentina goal with several free kicks and was a constant nuisance to the hosts' defence.
"A centre-forward has to work going forward and back, so when his team goes too deep he needs to spread it wide to help the others come up," the Dutchman told reporters.
"I asked Mario for intensity and in that sense he had a great game in both phases.
"We already knew he had talent and could take free kicks like that, but I was most impressed by his consistency and intensity."
The Dutch coach added was delighted with his team's performance having not won in the previous five games.
"It was a wonderful victory, because the team really did well over the last few days to react with two positive results.
"Considering the performance, the three points were deserved, as we won against a great team that plays wonderful football.
“We were a little more motivated and I saw that hunger to win in my players. It was a win for Milan and all the supporters.
"The players respected Fiorentina’s strength and possession football, so it was important to remain united and hit them with pace.
The 37-year-old also hit back at the media who have speculated that his job is already in jeopardy.
"Many false things were said. I am open to criticism as long as it is constructive, but what I see here is the intention to create controversy by spreading falsehoods disguised as fact.
“The people who wrote certain things have to deal with their own conscience, because mine is clear. I tried to keep the players focused on the game, but it was impossible not to be aware of what was being said outside.”
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