Positive debut for Mandzukic as Italian newspapers rate his performance vs. Atalanta

Despite only just joining the team, Mario Mandzukic made his debut last night as he came off the bench against Atalanta. Although Milan suffered a heavy defeat, the Croatian generated positive reviews in the media. 

The striker decided to take the No.9 shirt for the Rossoneri, hoping to break what has been somewhat of a curse as few strikers have managed to succeed with that number in the last ten years. A challenge, no doubt, that will fuel him.

Stefano Pioli subbed Mandzukic on with 20 minutes to go last night, and his presence on the pitch was very clear. He had a positive impact on the game and nearly scored straight away, but was denied by the goalkeeper.

Gazzetta Dello Sport gave him a rating of 6 (all out of 10), Corriere Dello Sport 5.5, Corriere Della Sera 6 and Tuttosport 5 (via Calciomercato.com). Decent numbers for the striker, considering the ratings the other Milan players got.

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