2 days ago
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Massimo Ambrosini has given his thoughts on a number of topics ahead of the January schedule really kicking off, and also whether AC Milan can win the Scudetto.
There are several questions surrounding Milan currently, and most of them cannot be answered today. In fact, several will only be able to be answered at the end of the season. It is an unfortunate part of the sport, but part of the beauty, too.
Right now, the Rossoneri would probably settle for a Champions League spot if they were offered it tomorrow. However, there is an underlying wish for the Diavolo to claim a second star in a season where many had written them off.
Ambrosini’s analysis
Massimiliano Allegri will not allow himself or his squad to think that far ahead, though. Instead, the work will be on the next game, and then the one after. From an outside perspective, Ambrosini believes that Milan are doing exactly what is needed, as he told Gazzetta dello Sport, via MilanPress.
“It must be acknowledged that Milan’s work was done correctly and followed a precise tactical plan. From a squad perspective, Inter and Napoli are stronger, but the Rossoneri have the advantage of being able to focus solely on the league.
“This isn’t a trivial matter, but rather a situation that should be exploited by a team that is numerically and technically inferior to the Nerazzurri and the Azzurri.”
Importance of January…
“Decisive? In my opinion, more on the pitch than on the transfer market. There are a lot of matches on the calendar, and Allegri must stay close to the top because the last two matchdays of the Champions League are at the end of the month, then from February onwards the playoffs, the round of 16…
“Inter and Napoli will expend physical and mental energy if they advance in Europe, and Milan must be able to take advantage of that. Transfer market?
“If Milan could find a solid alternative in defence, it would be important. The Rossoneri have twenty-one league games to play and no cup matches. Plus, they can count on versatile players like Bartesaghi, De Winter, and Loftus.”
Leao’s front-line role…
“For me, regarding his use as a centre forward, there’s still something to evaluate and fix. Even with his back to goal, dirty work and battling for high balls will never be in his DNA. Playing in support of a centre forward, he can instead showcase his qualities.”
Fullkrug’s arrival…
“He has characteristics and qualities that Milan lacked. Fullkrug isn’t in the physical condition to be a starter right now, but he could be important in certain parts of the game or, as time goes on, even from the start. Perhaps alongside Leao and Pulisic in a more attacking team.”
The midfield of Rabiot and Modric…
“Milan overcame that awful performance in the Super Cup because they have a fairly evident spirit and are supported by players like Modric and Rabiot, who add incredible depth.
“Modric has settled perfectly into a new environment for him, given that at Real Madrid he was used to playing the ball a lot, whereas now he often does key things when out of possession.”
An Allegrian Milan…
“AC Milan’s way of playing is full of determination and focus. They have a solid footballing foundation, and something can be added to the mix. How? By involving Rabiot more in the goal area, even though he has only one goal to his name.
“So far, the team has often scored with the first shot on target, but I think we need to work on attacking options for days when the ball won’t go in with the first shot.
“I also think Loftus, with his physicality, can be a big help: I would never sell someone like him because this AC Milan needs his goals and his ability to run the ball from midfield.
“He has focused on himself in all the discussions that in the past have led to the club, and consequently the team, being tossed around. Max has the broad shoulders to carry the weight of Milan, and in doing so, he has lightened the load on the players.
“After the first home defeat against Cremonese, if he hadn’t acted as a shield for the group, who knows what could have happened… Furthermore, he has this ability to win direct clashes thanks to a style of football based on endurance and focus.”
Pushing slyly?
“Max is a master of communication, and his point is spot on: Milan started from eighth place last season and couldn’t make any big announcements or immediately aim for the Scudetto. The Rossoneri aren’t obligated to finish first, and that could be an advantage in the long run.
“In the back-and-forth between Inter and Napoli over who is the favourite, Milan shouldn’t get involved: it’s better for them to stay slyly at the back and, if the conditions are right from March onwards…”
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