Fikayo Tomori admitted that AC Milan’s defensive shape is something that is a work in progress under the new coach, and provided an optimistic outlook after the draw against Torino.
Milan’s defensive department remains under scrutiny after a dreadful 2023-24 season under Stefano Pioli in which the team let in 49 goals in the league and 69 across all competitions, with the hope being that Paulo Fonseca – plus some new signings – can help bring some balance.
However, in the second half of last night’s game it looked like the nightmare would be continuing as the away side found themselves 2-0 up. Firstly Malick Thiaw failed to clear the ball off the line and then Duvan Zapata got the second with an unmarked header deep inside the box.
Ultimately goals from the substitutes Alvaro Morata and Noah Okafor would rescue a point for Fonseca’s side on his competitive debut as the new Milan coach, but the feeling was one of a missed opportunity to make a statement.
Tomori spoke during a post-match press conference in the media room at San Siro to give his thoughts on what was an entertaining curtain raiser but perhaps one the defenders will want to forget. MilanNews relayed his comments.
What was missing?
“We are looking for the right positions on the field, with a new coach and a new structure. We are working to improve, all together, moving from one department to another.”
Is the glass half full or half empty?
“Half full, I’m always optimistic. We know we have to improve many things, because we are not perfect. Last year we didn’t have the season we wanted to have, this year we have to improve. Obviously we don’t want to concede goals, but we have shown the spirit of not wanting to lose.”
2bh some obvious errors in defence that can be fixed either by increased concentration or change in personnel (Pavlovic instead of Thiaw)
But I expected us to have more control in midfield , this was just like Pioli-ball where when we lose it the opposition is running at our back 4. Not sure if Fofana alone can help this but we certainly need to fix how open we are. A better side than Torino would have smashed us on last night’s form
I don’t know what this guy is on about, as last season he was personally responsible for at least 30 lost points, and his colleague next to him for 30 more (and continuing last night). We should have sold them this summer and fix this hole that is called defence.
True 👍 talk thaw and tomori are desater to Milan defence
Thiaw-tomori and Calabria play like limbo for Torino 2nd golazoo… No man’s land.. so sad…