A New Coach, Familiar Challenges
Less than two full months into his tenure, Milan head coach Sergio Conceiçao must be acutely aware that the issues he faces are not entirely of his making. His predecessor, Paulo Fonseca, was dismissed not just because of poor results, but because of deeper, systemic problems within the club. Conceiçao’s early success, marked by an unexpected Supercoppa Italiana triumph, seemed to suggest a positive direction. However, the weeks that followed have revealed that the Rossoneri still grapple with recurring issues that have plagued them for some time. A recent 2-1 defeat against Bologna, which has left Milan eighth in Serie A and eight points behind the last Champions League spot, has only magnified these concerns. La Gazzetta dello Sport (GdS) has identified five key problems that Conceiçao must address to finish the season on a high note.
Concentration Lapses: A Recurring Nemesis
One of the most critical issues highlighted by GdS is Milan’s persistent concentration lapses. These moments of lost focus have repeatedly put the Rossoneri in jeopardy, even against teams they should easily dominate. In the match against Bologna, Milan appeared to have the game under control but faltered due to costly errors and missed opportunities. Such lapses can turn potential wins into frustrating losses and undermine the team’s overall consistency. Addressing these gaps in focus is paramount if Milan is to regain the form and stability they lacked under Fonseca. Conceiçao will need to implement rigorous mental training and tactical discipline to ensure his players stay sharp and engaged throughout the 90 minutes.
Joao Felix: The Expensive Enigma
Joao Felix, one of Milan’s highest-profile January signings, has quickly become a central figure in the team’s lineup. However, his recent performances have been lacklustre, failing to meet the high expectations set by his talent and transfer fee. Felix scored a goal on his debut against Roma in the Coppa Italia, but his impact has since waned. In the loss to Bologna, he managed only eight passes and zero shots on target, a statistic that speaks volumes about his current form. Conceiçao faces a significant challenge in revitalising Felix’s performance. The Portuguese forward’s struggles are not just a matter of individual form; they also affect the team’s attacking dynamics. Conceiçao may need to consider alternative options in the starting XI to maintain a competitive edge until Felix can find his rhythm again.
Squandered Opportunities: A Creative Drought
Milan’s inability to capitalise on their opportunities is another significant problem. The team has enough quality to pose a threat to their opponents, but they often rely on solo or episodic initiatives rather than cohesive, inventive play. This lack of creative spark makes it difficult to break down well-organised defences, leading to frustrating draws and losses. Conceiçao must find a way to unlock the team’s attacking potential, perhaps by experimenting with different formations or tactical approaches. Integrating players like Rafael Leão and Brahim Díaz more effectively could provide the spark needed to transform promising chances into goals.
Defensive Weaknesses: A Troubling Trend
The defensive setup under Conceiçao has also shown cracks. The coach’s preference for Strahinja Pavlović and Malick Thiaw as centre-backs has been met with skepticism, as recent fixtures have exposed significant weaknesses. Opponents have exploited gaps and miscommunications, often to Milan’s detriment. This raises questions about the underutilization of Matteo Gabbia, who showed promise under Fonseca. Conceiçao will need to reassess his defensive strategy and perhaps give Gabbia a chance to prove himself. Strengthening the defence is crucial, as a solid backline can provide the foundation for a successful campaign.
A Chaotic Club Environment
Beyond the pitch, Conceiçao is grappling with a chaotic club environment that adds to his managerial challenges. One of the most prominent issues is the role of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who, despite being officially an advisor to the owner, remains a dominant figure within the club. The overlapping responsibilities of CEO Giorgio Forlani and technical director Geoffrey Moncada further complicate matters, leading to a lack of clarity in decision-making processes. This internal confusion can have a detrimental effect on the team’s morale and performance. Conceiçao must work to bring some order to the club’s hierarchy and create a more focused and supportive environment for his players.
The Road Ahead: Navigating Turbulence
Conceiçao’s journey with Milan is just beginning, but it is already clear that he has his work cut out for him. The coach must address these five key problems to steer the Rossoneri back to the upper echelons of Serie A and secure a place in next season’s Champions League. Concentration, creativity, and defensive solidity are all essential, but equally important is creating a stable and coherent club environment. The Portuguese tactician’s ability to navigate these challenges will be crucial in determining Milan’s fate for the remainder of the season. With time and the right adjustments, Conceiçao has the potential to turn things around and deliver a positive outcome for the proud Milan faithful.
