When Yacine Adli was signed by AC Milan last summer, many wanted him to join the team immediately. However, he took his first steps at Milanello this summer and the start hasn’t been a walk in the park.
The French midfielder was left at Bordeauz on a season-long loan for last season, which is why Milan were able to get such a good deal (€8m paid). Despite a lot of hype, however, Adli has struggled to assert himself in the squad.
As highlighted by Calciomercato.com, the 22-year-old has played just 46 minutes between two league appearances this season. He wasn’t included in the Champions League squad either, even though that was more understandable given the rules.
There are mainly two reasons behind the lack of playing time, per the report: 1) Pioli is yet to find the perfect position as Adli seemingly cannot play in the midfield tandem, and not as a mezz’ala either. And 2) the competition with Brahim Diaz and Charles De Ketelaera for the No.10 role is too tough as things stand.
On the other hand, it’s clear that Adli was always going to be a signing for the future, and thus patience will also be needed in his development. When the time is right, Pioli will use him in the best way possible as we have seen with the other youngsters.
