GdS: ‘Allegri on a mission’ – how the new era began on day one at Milanello

2 weeks ago 90

Yesterday was the first day that Massimiliano Allegri was back as the AC Milan head coach. Of course, he was appointed a while ago, but now, it feels real again.

The task facing Milan is huge, and that is why everyone needs to be ready to play their part next season. For Allegri, though, this has been a new plan. Throughout the summer, he has been at Casa Milan and yesterday, his commitment shone again.

Just after 8am, he was present at Milanello, 4,190 days since the last time, as Gazzetta dello Sport writes (seen below). However, it seemed like nothing had changed. The coach, as you would expect, looked ready to begin work, heading to the fifth room like the greats before him.

His desire? To return to the pitch immediately and get to work. Why? To return Milan to their max.

Who was present

Yesterday was a day of introductions and tests, and the coach spent a few minutes with each player to greet his new team. Of course, it goes beyond this. First impressions are a must in these situations, and Allegri was keen to make good ones.

It is a two-way street, though. Allegri is not the only one wanting to make a good impression.

This reason exactly is why Matteo Gabbia was the first to arrive at the training ground yesterday, followed by Pobega, Emerson Royal, Ricci, Bondo, Colombo, Nava, Terracciano, Bartesaghi, Okafor, Comotto, Vos, Chukwueze, Loftus-Cheek, Torriani, Magni, Fofana and Thiaw.

Today, it will be others, Pulisic, Tomori, Musah, Torriani, whilst Leao, Pavlovic, Saelemaekers, and Maignan will be the last to arrive in this section, after the end of their international duties.

Theo Hernandez, like Ismael Bennacer, has been given an extra holiday, due to him not being included in the plans – which is also the case with Devis Vasquez and Yacine Adli.

What is clear from day one is Allegri’s desire to work, and this message imprinted itself onto the players, who were ‘struck’ by his energy and drive. In fact, many cannot wait to begin the journey with him.

The fans and Tare

There were no fans at Milanello yesterday, a situation likely to be vastly different on Monday when the stars return. In fact, they will be allowed to be present for the afternoon training session planned.

As you would expect, Igli Tare was also present yesterday, sticking by Allegri’s side just a few hours after the Italian arrived. They ate together and had a small meeting in the afternoon. Together, they are the insurance against another bad season.

Both know what is at stake, what needs to change, and who needs to change. Time is there for it, now the real work begins.