Pirlo questions mentality of Suso and offers Milan advice on Paqueta situation

By Oliver Fisher -

Former AC Milan midfielder Andrea Pirlo has suggested that Suso did not have the mental toughness to respond to criticism while with the Rossoneri.

The Spaniard lost his place in the starting XI with Stefano Pioli’s switch to a 4-4-2 formation, with compatriot Samu Castillejo preferred on the right of midfield after a number of poor performances from the former Liverpool man.

The wheels got in motion in January and eventually Suso secured an exit towards the end of the window, leaving for Sevilla on loan with an option to buy.

Towards the end of his time at Milan things had turned sour. During a 3-0 Coppa Italia win over SPAL, Suso came on as a substitute and was whistled and jeered by some of the San Siro crowd.

Pirlo spoke to La Gazzetta dello Sport on the transfer of Suso, and his words were transcribed by MilanNews.it.

“Suso? If at the first jeer you lose strength, you cannot play at the top. The champions react the opposite,” he said.

Another player experiencing difficulties – but one that stayed past the January window – is Lucas Paqueta. Reports in the media have suggested he is suffering with life away from the pitch, including stress and anxiety. Pirlo offered his thoughts on the young midfielder.

“Paqueta-Kaka comparisons? Evidently the performances have not been the same as Kaka. He too has to find his position. He is good but go easy with the comparisons.”

Tags AC Milan Andrea Pirlo Lucas Paqueta Suso
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