Milan Player Ratings vs Verona: Santiago Strikes Again
Milan secured a crucial 1-0 victory over Hellas Verona at the San Siro, marking their first back-to-back Serie A wins since mid-September. The game was a tale of missed opportunities, but the team’s resilience paid off as they managed to break through Verona’s defenses late in the match. This win was particularly important given the club’s disappointing 1-0 Champions League defeat to Feyenoord just days earlier, a match that saw significant criticism from fans and pundits alike. Returning to their home ground, the Rossoneri were determined to bounce back and did so with a solid performance, despite the initial struggles.
Mike Maignan – 7
Mike Maignan, Milan’s French goalkeeper, had a mixed start to the game. His first save lacked the usual confidence, which raised some concerns. However, he quickly regained his composure and was instrumental in maintaining a clean sheet, his second in consecutive Serie A matches. Maignan’s presence between the posts was crucial, especially in the closing moments of the game when Verona launched a last-ditch effort to equalize. His timely intervention, saving a long-range shot, ensured that Milan’s hard work was not in vain. His performance was a testament to his reliability and ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
Theo Hernandez – 6.5
Theo Hernandez, the star left-back, had a performance that was a step up from his disappointing showing in Rotterdam. While it wasn’t a vintage Theo display, he showed flashes of the form that has made him one of the best in his position. His attacking contributions were notable, and he provided a more balanced performance compared to his previous game. Hernandez’s ability to create opportunities and push forward was a key factor in keeping the pressure on Verona’s defense. Despite a few moments of uncertainty, his overall performance was commendable and provided a much-needed boost to the team’s morale.
Malick Thiaw – 6
Malick Thiaw had a somewhat rocky start to the game. An early blunder could have been costly, and he was guilty of a mistimed tackle that almost led to a breakthrough for Verona. However, Thiaw managed to steady himself as the game progressed. His aerial dominance and physical presence were crucial in repelling Verona’s attacks. While he improved significantly, there were still moments where he lacked the confidence and composure needed at the highest level. Nonetheless, his resilience and ability to recover from early mistakes were positive signs for the young center-back.
Matteo Gabbia – 7
In a match where defensive solidity was paramount, Matteo Gabbia stood out for his reliability and composure. The Italian center-back was a rock at the back, winning important aerial battles and making crucial clearances. His positioning and decision-making were impeccable, and he took no unnecessary risks with the ball. Gabbia’s consistent performance was a significant factor in Milan’s ability to keep Verona at bay, and his confidence grew as the game went on. His solid display provided the team with the defensive reassurance needed to push for the win.
Kyle Walker – 7
Kyle Walker, the right-back on loan from Manchester City, continued to impress with his defensive prowess. Verona’s attackers found it extremely difficult to get past him, and his positioning and tackling were top-notch. Walker’s ability to read the game and anticipate the movements of the opposition made him a formidable presence on the right flank. His performance was a key factor in Milan’s defensive solidity, and he demonstrated why he is considered one of the best defenders in the world. His confidence and leadership were evident, and he played a crucial role in maintaining the team’s zero-conceded record.
Midfield and Forward Line
In the midfield, Youssouf Fofana and Tijjani Reijnders played in the double pivot. Fofana’s defensive contributions were notable, but his attacking play was somewhat lackluster. His passes were not always clean, and he struggled to create meaningful chances. Reijnders, on the other hand, had a superb game and nearly opened the scoring with a long-range shot that came close. His vision and technical skills kept the midfield ticking and provided a useful link between defense and attack.
Yunus Musah, who came in for Christian Pulisic, had a solid debut. He nearly scored at the stroke of halftime but skied the ball from a promising position. The USMNT utility man showed flashes of brilliance and nearly made amends with a thunderous effort in the second half. His energy and versatility were valuable, and he adapted well to the high-pressure environment of a crucial Serie A match.
Joao Felix continued his impressive form, seamlessly adapting to life at Milan. His technical qualities and vision kept Verona’s defense on high alert throughout the game. Felix’s movements and ball control were exemplary, and he consistently created chances for his teammates. His presence on the field was a constant threat, and he was a key player in the build-up to the winning goal.
Santiago Gimenez – 7
Santiago Gimenez, the winter signing from Atalanta, once again proved his worth by scoring the winning goal. This was his second goal in as many Serie A appearances, and it came from a simple tap-in after Rafael Leao’s excellent buildup play. Gimenez’s positioning in the box and his poacher’s instinct were on full display, as he found himself in the right place at the right time to capitalize on the opportunity. His clinical finish was just what Milan needed to secure the victory. While the goal itself was straightforward, Gimenez’s overall performance was marked by his intelligent movement and ability to link up with his teammates effectively.
Substitutes
Rafael Leao, who came on as a substitute, had a significant impact on the game. His pace and creativity were instrumental in breaking down Verona’s defense, and he played a crucial role in setting up the winning goal. Leao’s ability to change the tempo of the game with his runs and crosses showcased his importance to the team. Despite a quiet start to the season, this performance hinted at a return to form for the Portuguese winger.
Alejandro Jimenez and Christian Pulisic also made contributions from the bench. Jimenez, another loan signing, added depth and energy to the attack, while Pulisic’s versatility and work rate were useful in the final moments of the game. Both players showed that they can be valuable additions when called upon, adding to the squad’s strength and depth.
Conclusion
Milan’s victory over Verona was a hard-fought one, reflective of the team’s determination and resilience. While the game was filled with missed opportunities, the team’s ability to stay focused and capitalize on their chances ultimately paid off. The performances of key players like Mike Maignan, Matteo Gabbia, and Santiago Gimenez were pivotal, and the contributions from the substitutes, especially Rafael Leao, were crucial in securing the win. This victory not only helped the team move up the Serie A table but also provided a much-needed morale boost after a tough week. Milan’s fans can take heart from this win, as it demonstrates the team’s ability to bounce back from adversity and maintain their competitive edge.
