AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli used the friendlies against Lumezzane, Arsenal and Liverpool to have a look at Yacine Adli, and it might have made his decision for him.
Calciomercato.com write that in the games so far Adli has shown some very promising signs with a style that is pleasing on the eye and a confidence that can create danger, but he had two big chances to score yesterday and failed to do so which might just have confirmed Pioli’s fears that he lacks that bit extra to be decisive.
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A 21-year-old boy is likely to find it tough to adapt in his first few months in a new country like Italy, given there is a new language to try and take in, a new city to settle in but also different rhythms in training and higher expectations at his new club.
Adli is committed and fights tenaciously for a spot and while he probably deserves more playing time, it is very unlikely that he will get any between now and the end of the season. Pioli sees him as an attacking midfielder and has pre-established hierarchies.
Brahim Díaz has characteristics that go perfectly with the coach’s idea of football while Charles De Ketelaere was an significant investment and as such he must be defended with all strength.
That’s why the most probable solution is to find a team in Italy that will take Adli on loan in January so he can continue adapting to the league and get more minutes, rather than being happy with a few minutes off the bench or the odd start in the cup.
Sampdoria and Cremonese have come forward to express their interest, so a decision will be made next month on the best course of action.
