Zachary Athekame was very happy as he spoke to the media after AC Milan’s 3-2 win against Torino, having contributed with good energy off the bench.
Massimiliano Allegri decided to replace Fikayo Tomori, who was on a yellow card, with Athekame for the second half. With that substitution, the gaffer also switched to a four-man backline, which turned out to be very successful for Milan.
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After the game, Athemake spoke to DAZN about the different approach in the second half (via MilanNews). He also said that Milan are working on both a four-man and a five-man backline at Milanello, which is why they are so comfortable switching between the two.
A very different Milan in the second half…
“The coach spoke at half-time, and the team followed his lead. I came on with determination, and the game went much better.”
You have improved a lot…
“I work a lot at Milanello, with the team, the coach, and the staff. I’m very happy with how well we work together.”
Are you trying the 4-3-3 at Milanello?
“Yes, we are trying both a 4-man and 5-man defence. A game can change, so we work on this a lot in training.”
Athekame was given a 6/10 in our player ratings as despite adding energy, and passing it to Fofana before his goal, it was still a decent performance and not much more – mainly because Torino created some danger on his flank towards the end.
When athekame comes in, Milan more flexible than the tomori display. I watch the game. Athekame can use both of his foot rather than tomori ( only right foot). That’s the different and crucial for full back.
He is more flexible than tomori