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.
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