The Disappointing Defeat Against Torino
Journalist Andrea Longoni’s analysis of AC Milan’s loss against Torino is a stark reminder of the team’s ongoing struggles. This defeat was particularly devastating, not only because of the immediate loss of crucial points but also because it further complicated Milan’s chances this season. With Lazio and Bologna dropping points, the stage was set for Milan to capitalize, but instead, they faltered. The game was marred by individual mistakes, a recurring theme that has plagued the Rossoneri throughout the season. As Longoni points out, the disappointing performance has left many fans and analysts questioning the direction of the team and what needs to be done moving forward.
The Pattern of Decline
Longoni’s column in MilanNews underscores a disturbing trend. Milan’s performances this season have consistently fallen short, week after week, seemingly hitting new lows each time they take the field. Despite the added motivation from Bologna and Lazio’s results, Milan failed to capitalize. The pattern is all too familiar: wrong formation, individual errors, and hasty changes at halftime leading to a confusing and ineffective final setup. Longoni notes that he has lost count of the individual mistakes, from Gabbia and Musah in Zagreb to Maignan in Rotterdam, and more recently, Theo Hernandez and the disastrous quickly-taken free kick. These recurring issues have not only cost Milan points but have also eroded the team’s morale and confidence.
The Goalkeeper Conundrum
One of the most perplexing aspects of Milan’s recent performances has been the inexplicable form of their goalkeeper, Mike Maignan. Longoni is particularly critical of Maignan’s repeated errors, which have been a significant factor in several of Milan’s defeats. The missed penalty by Christian Pulisic and the defenders’ failure to react to the quickly-taken free kick further compounded the problems. The goalkeeper’s role is crucial, and Maignan’s inconsistency has left many wondering how a player of his caliber can make such critical mistakes. This has added to the mounting pressure on the team and the coaching staff.
The Coaching Dilemma
The coaching decisions have also come under scrutiny. Longoni questions the strategic choices made by the current manager, particularly the benching of Fofana and the decision to start with four attacking players. He also criticizes the tactical adjustments made during the match, such as taking off Rafael Leao and bringing on a midfielder when Milan was trailing. These decisions highlight the coaching staff’s inability to adapt and make effective changes during critical moments. Longoni argues that these mistakes are a clear indication that a new coaching approach is needed, one that is more experienced and better suited to handling the pressures of top-level football.
The Call for a New Manager
Given the current state of the team, Longoni believes that a comprehensive overhaul is necessary. He advocates for a “clean house” approach, starting with the appointment of a new, experienced, and successful Italian manager. The ideal candidate, he suggests, should be a proven winner with a track record of success at top clubs, such as Conte, Allegri, or Sarri. Each of these managers has their own strengths and weaknesses, but the common thread is their ability to lead and manage high-pressure situations. Longoni emphasizes that the new manager must be someone who can bring stability, tactical acumen, and a winning mentality to the team.
The Future of Milan’s Management
Beyond the coaching staff, Longoni also calls for a reset in the club’s management. He argues that the issues facing Milan are not just tactical or on-field but are deeply rooted in the club’s current leadership. The need for a complete overhaul extends to the management team, which must be more proactive and decisive in addressing the club’s problems. This reset, he believes, should have been evident to many in the summer, but unfortunately, it was not recognized by the club’s ownership. With Bologna and Lazio up next, Milan faces a critical test. Securing six points from these games is essential to keep their top-four hopes alive, but it won’t be easy, especially if the mistakes continue. The summer will be a crucial time for Milan to reassess and rebuild, both on and off the field.
