CM: Abandoning conversation – how Maignan displayed new Milan mentality before kick-off

AC Milan have reset themselves mentally over the summer, and this has culminated in several things. However, there is one above all.

Last night, after nearly 500 minutes of football, Milan conceded their second goal of the season. A record which, frankly, is ridiculous. However, this is something that Massimiliano Allegri is well known for.

In the past, he has regularly highlighted the need for results over entertainment. Though sometimes the pair go hand in hand. For example, the previous two games to last night’s clash saw six goals, three in each.

However, Allegri will smile at the opposition goal count, rather than that of his own team. The most important thing is defensive stability. Something which the Rossoneri are relearning after a year, if not longer, without it.

Milan’s new mentality

The goal last night was a sloppily given away penalty in the 60th minute. Last season, the team may have capitulated. Not this Diavolo, though. Instead, Allegri’s men dug deep, fighting for each other and ensuring they protected their goal, and, in turn, the result.

Matteo Gabbia’s role in this, as well as Luka Modric’s, have been highlighted. Perhaps, though, the biggest sign of this was from Mike Maignan, before the ball was even officially rolling.

Photos: Jonathan Moscrop + Angel Martinez/Getty Images

As Calciomercato.com reports, before kick-off, the Frenchman was involved in a discussion with Claudio Filippi, the goalkeeping coach. Then, the coach kicked a ball towards the goal, Maignan abandoned the conversation, and ran to prevent the ball from going in. Even if it meant nothing in the grand scheme.

That right there was a sign of the mentality ingrained in this team. During the warm-up too, during a conversation, at any time, Milan have to be aware of a threat to their goal and prevent it.