AC Milan are not among the favourites to win the Scudetto and their mercato has not yet completed the squad, according to a former Bologna head coach.
Eight signings have arrived for Milan this summer ranging from Marco Sportiello and Luka Romero on free transfers to Tijjani Reijnders, Christian Pulisic and Samuel Chukwueze who all cost €20m+.
Given the amount of overhaul, it is hard to tell who will come out as top dogs in Serie A but if you feel like your luck is in, then you should check out http://bonus.ca/.
Stefano Pioli’s side begin their Serie A season tonight with a difficult trip to the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara to face Bologna, a team who finished 9th last season and have taken strides forward under Thiago Motta.
MilanNews spoke to Daniele Arrigoni who was the head coach of Bologna during the 2007-08 season in view of tonight’s game against the Rossoblu.
What pitfalls does the match against Bologna at Dall’Ara hide for Milan?
“It’s never easy to play in that stadium, for me. At this stage, however, everyone has heavy legs. I know how Pioli works with his staff, he has fired up a lot of his player, to be able to fgive more in the coming months, when the others tend to give up.”
In what aspects could Thiago Motta tactically oppose Pioli?
“I like him as a coach, but Bologna are inferior to Milan. The Emilians have also lost a lot with the transfer market. They must immediately start the match with intensity and stay at that level.”
Speaking of the Milan mercato, who is the new signing that intrigues you the most?
“Can I name two? I say Chukwueze and Pulisic. I’m very curious to see them in Serie A.”
As a coach, are Milan technically and tactically in order with this squad?
“No, because it’s true that they signed Okafor, but another first striker is needed. Okafor is more of a winger.”
Do you place the Rossoneri as favorites for the Scudetto?
“No, for me the favorites are Napoli, Inter and Juve. Watch out also for Lazio.”
For what reasons does Pioli’s team not start on pole?
“The Rossoneri have had a total revolution. It is true that Stefano [Pioli] – whom I know very well – immediately adapts to everything and tactically changes everything in an unpredictable way, but he needs time. He is a young base, designed to win and dominate in the long term, not immediately.”
You met him personally, what is your memory of Carlo Mazzone?
“For me, with his way of doing things, he contributed to changing the role of the coach in Italy in terms of image, helping the whole category. Unfortunately, I was not aware of his serious health situation. I am deeply sorry. He has given a lot to Italian football.”
