‘A fantastic transfer window’ – Di Marzio explains why Milan’s management deserve praise

Gianluca Di Marzio believes that AC Milan did fantastic business in the window, largely because they were able to complete Mike Maignan’s renewal.

A week has already passed since the winter transfer window closed, and it’s time to take stock of things. Milan acquired a striker for the present in Niclas Fullkrug from West Ham United, as well as a midfielder for the future in Alphadjo Cissè.

These were the only two acquisitions that really concern the first team, at least in the here and now. However, the main headlines were the extension of Maignan’s contract and the Jean-Philippe Mateta soap opera, two separate events that dominated the headlines right until the end.

Di Marzio commented on Milan’s transfer business on Sky Sport’s YouTube channel, and unlike a lot of pundits he expressed a favourable opinion. PianetaMilan relayed what he had to say.

“Milan have had a fantastic transfer window, it wasn’t easy to change the face of a team that needed leadership players. Fullkrug has given Allegri an extra tactical variable, but the real acquisition of the winter transfer window is the renewal of Maignan, a player with incredible charisma,” he said.

“Modric made the difference in the first half of the season. Rabiot is a player who can turn a team around. De Winter is growing. Milan wanted to bring forward the signing of Mateta because Fullkrug is on loan, and it’s not a given that he’ll stay.

“We’re talking about a complete striker, but then the medical tests put everything on hold. It’s better to avoid signing players with these physical problems.”