AC Milan are facing a difficult decision regarding Luka Modric and his playing time moving forward, putting everyone in a new position.
In the past, Milan didn’t have to think twice about using Modric. However, it seems they will have to this season. Against Lazio, the former Real Madrid man struggled and it was visible to everyone – so much so that he was taken off after just 45 minutes.
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Modric’s position under fire
As Gazzetta dello Sport writes, the Croatian has been shaken by Ruben Amorim’s system, so much so that he’s ‘gone off the rails’. It’s a sentence that most didn’t ever expect to read in relation to Modric.
However, it’s undeniable that his performances have shifted.
In the 3-5-2 utilised by Massimiliano Allegri, the midfielder had protection from the others. He was given a license to create and play the game at his tempo. However, Amorim’s system doesn’t allow that. So, the pressure on him is greater.
It’s fair to suggest that the Croatian is not able to keep up with this style, unlike he may have been able to previously and Amorim acknowledged this.
Having just turned 41, the worries about his ability are not the issue. Instead, it’s his ability to keep up. 10 years ago, it wouldn’t have been an issue, but now it certainly is a topic for discussion. Amorim’s system, ultimately, doesn’t really suit him.
As seen against Lazio, the system makes him vulnerable, which only affects the Diavolo negatively, unfortunately.
A permanent benching him isn’t the go-to option. Instead, it’s more likely that Modric is used in a part-time role, in games where possession and control are likely. As Amorim said, he’s not able to play in ‘race-type’ games.
