Milan’s Disappointing Exit from the Champions League
Calciomercato.com’s Daniele Longo has penned a scathing analysis of AC Milan’s recent performance, particularly their shocking elimination from the Champions League at the hands of Feyenoord. "There is nothing rational about Milan," he begins, pointing to the team’s erratic behavior in the return match against Feyenoord. Despite being on top for 50 minutes and displaying some "beautiful" moments, the team’s performance suddenly disintegrated, leading to a heartbreaking defeat. This collapse is emblematic of a deeper issue within the club, where potential and reality are starkly mismatched.
Theo Hernandez: A Microcosm of Milan’s Struggles
Theo Hernandez serves as a vivid example of the problems afflicting AC Milan. Despite his undeniable potential and the capability to be one of the best left-backs in the world, Hernandez has consistently underdelivered. His mediocre attitude and inconsistent performance levels have become a source of frustration for fans and pundits alike. In just 19 days, Milan went from the brink of qualifying for the Champions League round of 16 to being eliminated by a youthful Feyenoord side that was struggling with an injury crisis. This rapid decline underscores the fragility and instability within the team.
Missed Opportunities and Shattered Hopes
Milan had multiple chances to secure their Champions League qualification. Winning against Dinamo Zagreb would have been sufficient, but instead, they suffered two defeats and a draw in three crucial matches. The team’s inability to capitalize on these opportunities was further compounded by their loss against Feyenoord, where they squandered an early lead. Taking the lead just 36 seconds into the game, with a goal from Santiago Gimenez, Milan seemed poised for a comeback. However, their performance faltered, leading to another disappointing result.
A Time for Reflection and Decisive Action
Longo insists that this series of setbacks must spark deep reflections and decisive choices within the club. This is not just a matter of a few bad games; it is a symptom of a larger problem that requires a comprehensive overhaul. The team, he argues, "needs to be rebuilt from the ground up." Focusing on the positive aspects, such as the average points per game in the league and the success in the Supercoppa Italiana, is not enough. There is a real risk of a "psychological backlash" if the club does not address the underlying issues.
Moving Forward: The Torino Game and Beyond
The immediate challenge for Milan is the upcoming match against Torino on Saturday. The team must put the Champions League disappointment behind them and focus on the league. They can no longer afford to drop points if they are to maintain their competitive edge. The emphasis must be on looking forward and not dwelling on what could have been. This is a crucial period for the club, and a strong performance against Torino could serve as a catalyst for a much-needed resurgence.
The Storm on the Horizon: A Summer Revolution
The future of Milan is uncertain, but one thing is clear: a significant shake-up is on the cards. Longo predicts a ‘revolution in the summer,’ which could see sweeping changes in the squad, management, and possibly even the club’s strategic direction. The club’s leadership must take bold steps to address the issues that have plagued the team. Whether through major transfers, restructuring the coaching staff, or reevaluating the club’s overall philosophy, the coming months will be pivotal in determining Milan’s future success.
