AC Milan’s former legendary coach, Arrigo Sacchi believes the Rossoneri should come together as a team in order to regain former glory after a dismal decade from 2011 to 2020.
At the weekend, Stefano Pioli’s team came out on top at the Stadio Renato dall’Ara in Bologna, thanks to two penalties. One of which Zlatan Ibrahimovic missed, with Ante Rebic quick to capitalise on the rebound, and in the other Franck Kessie made no mistake.
As Milan carved out a 2-1 victory against Bologna, Sacchi analyzed the team’s performance – pointing out defensive setbacks and lack of direct passes as the reason for the narrow win.
Speaking to La Gazzetta dello Sport (via PianetaMilan), he said: “Stefano Pioli’s men pressed less than usual, they were less compact, too long and too wide, less collaborative. Defensively, they were less of a ‘team’. In the offensive phase they focused a lot on the throws, looking for the head of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, they played less with ground passes and possession.”
Milan started off on a positive note, but faded as the match went on. “After a decent half hour, Milan left space and opportunities for the hosts. Same story in the final quarter of an hour, filled with fear of conceding.”
He pointed out few players and gave his thoughts on their performance with praise for the latest addition Fikayo Tomori.
“Good introduction for Fikayo Tomori, although he somewhat suffered during finishing stages. Franck Kessié, although a little fatigued, once again was fundamental. Perhaps, today he is the most important midfielder in the league. Theo Hernández has great physical qualities, but could be more thoughtful. Davide Calabria is always in continuous motion and an example of generosity and will.”
He also made sure to point out Gianluigi Donnarumma’s exceptional performance that kept Milan from conceding goal upon goal. “Gigio Donnarumma is a phenomenon,” he said.
Concluding his analysis, Sacchi said: “Rafael Leão has made progress and has great qualities. Ibra, indispensable reference, (he has to) be more patient with his companions. His every word has great weight.
“AC Milan should return to being a modern collective – not a group scattered around the pitch. Only in this way will it bring out collaboration and synergy.”
The former master tactician will be rooting for AC Milan to win their first Scudetto in over a decade – with the club’s 18th and most recent title coming in 2010-11 Serie A season.
