The international break is coming to an end and for Davide Calabria – who was once again snubbed by Italy – it never really even started. Despite that, it has been a difficult couple of weeks for the defender.
As Calciomercato.com write, the decision to sign Emerson Royal was the first warning sign for Calabria, because Paulo Fonseca made it clear he wanted another solution at right-back and thus the captain then had to fight for his spot, a battle he lost in view of the Lazio game.
Calabria has always done his job with professionalism and dedication and – even if he probably hasn’t managed to enter the hearts of the fans despite being one himself – his starting position has never been more in doubt.
Despite this, another role could open up for him after Ismael Bennacer’s long-term injury. The report states that the 27-year-old could once again be useful to Fonseca in the ‘wild card’ role of central midfielder, a position he was deployed in during various injury crises.
The pitch will provide answers, also relating to the long-standing and complicated negotiations for the renewal of his contract. Calabria’s deal is currently set to expire on 30 June 2025 with the last extension having been signed way back in 2021.
The full-back’s goal is to remain in the Rossoneri for a long time, but he expects recognition from the club for what he has done so far, which means earning around €3.5-4m net per season like Bennacer, Chukwueze and Tomori get.
Those are players who have given – in his opinion – much less to Milan than he has done. Also for this reason, the next 30 days will not only be decisive for Fonseca but for the captain too.