The struggles of Krzysztof Piatek in preseason have been well documented, and Monday’s edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport focuses on his preseason performances.
Milan won just one friendly over the summer despite a couple of impressive performances; that being a 2-0 win over Kosovan side Feronikeli last weekend.
In addition to that the Rossoneri only scored five goals: two from Suso, one from Theo Hernandez, one from Borini and an own goal.
Il Pistolero didn’t manage to get on the scoresheet, having missed some opportunities and showing an unusual lack of predatory instinct in front of goal.
Given the Poland international’s struggles towards the end of last season after his red hot start for Milan, concerns surrounding the €35m signing are growing.
The report offers two possible explanations for his lack of joy finding the back of the net in the closed season.
The first is all about new head coach Marco Giampaolo, who is asking Piatek to make different movements compared to last year.
He has been asked to move wide and stretch the opposition’s defence on multiple occasions, as well as play with his back to goal, and thus far he hasn’t quite gelled with Suso – who has played in behind.
The other reason is that Milan haven’t had a quality ‘support striker’ at their disposal.
Rafael Leao, who arrived from Lille in a €28m deal, showed promise in the glimpses we have seen from the Portuguese.
The same however cannot be said for Samu Castillejo, who looks lightweight and out of position, while Andre Silva is on the market.
Two possible reasons for Piatek’s dry spell, and issues that Giampaolo will hope he can iron out in time for Sunday’s trip to Udinese.
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