When AC Milan appointed Massimiliano Allegri, most presumed that the defensive structure would be improved. However, whether anyone expected individual improvements is something else entirely.
Allegri’s reputation speaks for itself. He is very much an elite coach, but he is also one of the most defensive-oriented options on the market, winning unattractively, but winning nonetheless. In football, at least to the Italian, nothing else matters.
In this year’s title race, we have seen this proven even further. Inter have found the right balance, scoring a lot and barely conceding, whilst the Rossoneri have taken a more cautious approach. Yet, after last season, that was always required.
Goals were conceded at a rate far too frequent to challenge seriously for anything, and structurally, issues don’t cover it. However, perhaps the biggest issue was the lack of trust in certain individuals within the team.
At the back, the Diavolo saw a number of different ideas trialled, and yet neither of the Portuguese coaches settled, really. Instead, it was a constant merry-go-round of options. This obviously had an effect on each member, but now, stability has proven that one has a significantly high ceiling.
Importance of individuals
Matteo Gabbia’s performances this season have been of the same level, whilst Fikayo Tomori has returned to a level near where he previously was. For Strahinja Pavlovic, though, he looks like a man recreated.
The Serbian has found an exciting role that matches his skillset perfectly, allowing him to attack with an exciting craziness and rawness. When defending, whilst he is not perfect, he is certainly more calm, and whilst still a little overexcited, he looks a million times more solid.
Allegri’s work is identifiable with ease, and it may be as simple as that: attention and continued trust. Yet it could’ve been so different.
Gamble paid off
In the January mercato last season, there were suggestions that Pavlovic could be sold, effectively giving up on the young defender after only a few months. However, Milan continued their faith, and did so again when there were rumours of Premier League interest in the summer.
It is apparent that Pavlovic is a better defender than what he was made out to be last season, and now, as a result, his market value is much much higher.
Was it a gamble? Yes. Has it paid off thus far? Without a doubt, and if you are looking for a gamble yourself, consider looking at Casimaru’s betting overview.
