Mike Maignan made his return to Champions League action last night and played a huge hand in helping AC Milan secure qualification for the quarter-finals.
Today’s edition of La Gazzetta dello Sport (as seen below) writes how Maignan led Milan to a place they have not been for 11 years: the final eight of European club football’s most prestigious competition.
Two consecutive injuries kept him away from the field for 161 days and he missed the last four group stage games plus the first leg against Spurs, eventually making his return in the win over Atalanta last month.
He has returned to doing what he did so well in the Scudetto season that he earned him the title of best goalkeeper in Serie A. His very strong personality made itself felt immediately as Milan not only benefitted from him long passing range but also his confidence, charisma, leadership and organisation skills.
He made vital interventions during last night’s draw such as in the first half when he put his foot on Harry Kane’s shot that was deflected dangerously by Thiaw. In the second half he raised his hands to deflect a Hojbjerg shot over the bar.
However, it was in injury time that he surpassed himself with an incredible sprawling stop to deflect a great header from Kane. Conte was disconsolate while observing the flight of the Magic Eagle, throwing his arms up as if to suggest there is nothing more that can be done.
Super Mike is indeed magical 😲😲😲
What a performance!
I pray that you’ll remain injury free in Jesus mighty name Amen 🔥🙏🏻💯
Forza Mike 🐈⬛, Forza Milan ♥️🖤
Amen
I 4 call am SUPER EAGLE!!🖤❤️ No be Naija own sha
Thank goodness for Mike. If Tata had played last night, Milan would be out for sure.