Some promising signs may have been shown against Celtic and Inter, but yesterday’s friendly against Chelsea certainly confirmed the status of AC Milan.
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After failing to register a single shot on target, Milan were deservedly beaten by Xabi Alonso’s side, who found the back of the net three times. Truth be told, the scoreline could have been even worse for the Rossoneri, given how the game progressed.
Today’s edition of Tuttosport (via MilanNews) labelled the Rossoneri a “work in progress”, which definitely feels like a fair assessment. It’s just a bit worrying that this is the case with two weeks left until the start of the season.
Limitations are evident
Amorim made it clear after the game that he hasn’t lost faith in his team, convinced that they will be ready for the Torino clash. However, if anything emerged from the game, it’s that the Rossoneri need to make some moves on the mercato to get there.
Both incomings and departures need to be looked at, especially the latter as there are simply too many players in the squad right now. Leao, Tomori, Fofana, Ricci, Estupinan, Gimenez, Athekame, Odogu, perhaps even Loftus and Musah… Will they be able to sell them in three weeks?
The fact is that all three friendlies highlighted the limitations of Amorum’s squad. The Portuguese coach wants a possession-based game, a pressing team, and players who seek verticality. Yesterday, none of this was seen, not even remotely.
The feeling is that many players in the squad aren’t suited to this system. As such, selling is necessary, just as it is necessary to bring in some reinforcements. Unfortunately, Amorim’s evaluation phase has perhaps lasted a bit too long, and in 14 days the season begins against Torino. Time is running out.