MN: How Pavlovic is benefitting from Allegri’s change to a 3-5-2

The switch to a three-man defence by Massimiliano Allegri seems to help each centre-back, but above all Strahinja Pavlovic.

As MilanNews reports, while playing with three central defenders raises some doubts about the simultaneous use of some of the strongest players in the squad, on the other hand there are several players who could be enhanced by it.

Strahinja slots straight in

In truth, Allegri has never discussed formations in interviews and press conferences, never providing clear guidance, instead focusing more on interpretation and player characteristics, with positions that can be changed by a few metres.

It’s also true that in recent matches, the formation deployed has resembled a 3-5-2 rather than a 4-3-3. This solution is currently viable thanks primarily to Alexis Saelemaekers, the true deciding factor in this almost hybrid formation because of his work rate in both phases.

Besides the former Anderlecht man, who has spent the last two seasons on loan at Bologna and Roma, Pavlovic is undoubtedly the one who benefits from this style of play. The Serbian, who arrived last year, has shown plenty of bright signs but also some more rough moments.

Photo by AC Milan

Like Fikayo Tomori, he’s an instinctive player who often breaks the line and who makes aggression one of his most obvious qualities, sometimes at his undoing. Having the cover of an added central defender offers extra protection, and allows Pavlovic to do what he prefers.

Although there are several aspects of his game that need to be refined, the former Salzburg man hasn’t looked out of place and it seems his spot is in fact locked in under Massimiliano Allegri.

Furthermore, his ability to push into space on the ball is an added weapon, in particular when breaking down deep blocks. At Inter, who have used this system for many seasons, Alessandro Bastoni plays the role perfectly in this regard as well.

There is no comparison between the two at present in terms of level, but Allegri will have to work on the Serbian in this area as well. After last season’s difficulties, Pavlovic – with a different coach and system – can now prove he’s worthy of Milan.