Sergio Conceicao made a few tweaks for the game against Udinese, and AC Milan were paid back handsomely, with three points, four goals and a five-star performance.
It has been a tough season, but when Milan have shown up, they have often been brilliant, and that was the case once again in Udine. The Rossoneri started poorly, but made a few chances here and there.
However, when it mattered, Rafael Leao got the team firing, with a beautiful first-time strike on the edge of the box, struck without a hint of hesitation.
After his goal and assist, Leao spoke to DAZN, via Milan News about Conceicao’s tactics.
How did you find this formation?
“Very good, I found the movements up front, I created danger, those up front looked for me a lot. The coach found a good strategy defensively, and also in attack, we felt at ease.”
How did you manage to find yourselves ninth? What was missing?
“The details. We showed that we entered with a clear focus on all aspects. Playing away from home against these teams is difficult, so everything makes a difference.”
The winger also spoke to Sky, via the Milan News.
Are you comfortable with this formation?
“Yes, in my opinion, yes. We are more compact, there is one more man to defend. And then up front, we are freer to attack. I feel good with Pulisic, with Luka Jovic and with Abraham, who came in well. We can do well.”
You have always dreamt of scoring away from home in the league…
“It’s been a long time since I scored at San Siro, but I don’t enter the field with that obsession. I’m happy for the team for today. I send a thought to Maignan. It’s always strange here. When we entered in the second half, the fans made a bit of a racket. This victory is for him.”
Friday’s display was as good as we have seen the Portuguese all season, if not beyond that, and it shows that he still holds the keys to be the star when he turns up. Perhaps, moving forward, the solution is in the system.
Looks like the sort of guy you can rely on only when things are going well. Saw him looking very positive and making a couple of nice off ball presses after the team were already three goals up. Strange timing of working hard. When the team are in difficulties, he’s isolated frustrated and frustrating.
Any system of play that is only focused on a player who only gives his all in short bursts is bound to collapse when that player is not in the mood or has been locked down.
Milan must have multiple points of reference in attack. All our moves should not go through only one man, especially one who hates tracking back or playing in confined spaces.
The test will come against high pressing compact teams, or teams who play a low block.
If only u would get back and help theo in defense. During 16-17th minute, theo was on a one on one defense with a Udinese player near the edge of our box, yet u were walking as if u didn’t care. Look at how Pulisic tracks back to help the team. I won’t mind if u were sold. Burst moment won’t last long