CM: Three factors and the World Cup risk – Estupinan already considered available by Milan

Pervis Estupinan was signed in the summer to be AC Milan’s starting left-back, but just a few months on his days at the club could be numbered.

As Calciomercato.com report, being the heir to Theo Hernandez was from the outset a rather complicated if not impossible mission. However, Estupinan has so far not provided the performances hoped for, especially in terms of his defensive work.

Already a deputy

The decision made by Igli Tare and the Milan management in the summer was clear and precise: they went all in on Estupinan and they concluded a deal with Brighton relatively quickly, worth around €18m.

His red card against Napoli on September 28th marked an early turning point. Since then, Davide Bartesaghi has raised his performance level, becoming the dominant force on the left flank. Many thought the Ecuador international was ready for a step up, but his struggles are obvious.

Photo by AC Milan

Estupinan’s difficulties in this initial phase of his Italian experience can be traced to three factors: the pressure of playing at such a big club, the difficulty of settling into Serie A, and a style of play that isn’t being effectively utilised by Massimiliano Allegri.

The errors he committed against Fiorentina show a lack of confidence, and there is a chance he could miss out on a place at the World Cup. Milan are ready to listen to offers in January, even with the challenges of having to find a replacement on the market.

Currently the conditions don’t seem right for a January departure. Next summer, however, Estupinan’s name will be much talked about on the transfer market, but Milan can’t afford to suffer a capital loss.