GdS: Leadership and offensive threat – how Gabbia’s absence is hurting Milan at both ends

Matteo Gabbia is a crucial player to AC Milan, with stats pointing out that since his absence began, they have lost six times. 

It is clear anyway that Gabbia is one of Milan’s most important players. There are few doubts about that, regardless of the recent situation. However, his absence over the past few games has only deepened the truth that the Italian is vital to what the Rossoneri do.

Gabbia’s importance

Earlier this week, it was pointed out that Gabbia has only been part of one loss this season for the Diavolo; that being the opening day defeat to Cremonese. Since then, he has not lost in the red and black stripes.

Instead, the defeats have been suffered when the central defender was sidelined with injury, as has been the case recently.

Reports today suggest that he will instantly return to the starting XI when he is ready and it is clear why this is the case.

As Gazzetta dello Sport writes, without him at the back, there is a defensive disorder. He is a clear leader and without his presence, the structure capitulates. Whilst not the most experienced player that Allegri has available to him, he shows otherwise on the pitch and the stats support this. Without him, Milan concede 1.14 goals per game, almost 0.3 more per game.

Interestingly, without him in the team, their scoring rate has also decreased in recent times. It could just be a coincidence, or maybe it is a belief that they can gamble more, with more safety at the back. Who knows… What is known, though, is that Gabbia is needed back as soon as possible.