AC Milan have recovered well after their 5-1 derby loss to Inter but one mission still remains for Stefano Pioli: finding the best possible version of Olivier Giroud.
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As Calciomercato.com recall, Milan decided to sign two players during the summer window that are able to let Giroud catch his breath. Luka Jovic arrived on deadline day but it is Noah Okafor who has impressed most with goals in each of his last two games.
Giroud, meanwhile, has been in a sharp decline since the international break and has been far less involved than what was seen in the first three matches.
Taking for example the last match against Lazio and the one against Torino (not only for the two goals scored), the difference clearly emerges both in the areas of the pitch covered and in the number of balls played by the Frenchman.
The number of duels won went from 80% to 15%, the shots attempted went from 4 (with 2 goals) to 1 admittedly saved very well by Provedel, while opportunities created went from 3 to 0 and fouls conceded from 4 to 0.
Giroud’s four goals this season were all before the international break and he still only has one from open play. Milan perhaps play better today and have integrated the new players well, but what’s missing is having a true focal point No.9 who opponents fear.
