1 month ago
51
After conceding two against Cremonese in round one, AC Milan’s defensive record had to improve instantly. Thankfully, it did.
As Corriere della Sera (via MilanNews) report this morning, Milan’s 1-0 victory over Bologna on Sunday evening is the manifesto of Allegri’s philosophy. They restricted the opponents to zero shots on target, and doing that it is almost impossible to conceded.
More specifically, they mention a compact defence, an organised and experienced midfield, and a striker who must lend a hand in the defensive phase. Moreover, Allegri protected his team even at the cost of a red card, ending up nose to nose with the fourth official after taking his jacket off.
Three clean sheets in four
In the four competitive matches played so far by Milan – Bari in the Coppa Italia, plus the first three league matches against Cremonese, Lecce, and Bologna – the Rossoneri have finished the match without conceding a goal three times.
Yet, the defenders who played are the same as last year, more specifically Fikayo Tomori, Matteo Gabbia and Strahinja Pavlovic from right to left. What has undoubtedly changed is their attitude and that of the entire team.
It’s been a short time since the start of the season, but Allegri’s hand is already evident, and not just in the solidity he’s brought to a Milan side that one year conceded too many goals and left opponents with endless opportunities.
Among the coach’s requests to the club was to bring in some experienced players who could be an example to the many young players in the squad, and the management has granted him his wish with Luka Modric.
The eternal champion has already become a key figure for his Milan. With him and Adrien Rabiot, the personality and leadership levels have grown, precisely what the Rossoneri were lacking. That breeds calm, which means less mistakes and – hopefully – less goals conceded.
English (US) ·