Five things we learned after Benevento vs AC Milan
Rino Gattuso had a debut to forget after Brignoli’s shocking late goal gifted their first Serie A point to Benevento. It’s time to analyse AC Milan’s current situation.
1- THE TEAM’S PSYCHOLOGICAL STATUS
We have talked recurrently about the psychological status of the team this season: from motivation and character through the bonding between the new players and the “old guard”, the tendency of conceding goals against the top sides when the game is balanced, and the players’ capacity to adapt in a team full of new faces. Yet, the goal scored by goalkeeper Brignoli at the last gasp could only be defined as shocking. While all our opponents feel certain joy for our current situation, it is now more than ever when we have to stand strong and find our intensity, our strength and pride. We need to reflect. It is the right time for introspection.
2- THE NEWS
Benevento’s equaliser ruined everything. However, we have to consider the previous 94 minutes of the match. We drastically dropped our game after Romagnoli was sent-off, but there are many improvements worth analysing before that. Suso and Bonaventura played closer to Kalinic and seemed more synchronised, while Rodriguez and Borini were able to attack the wings with more freedom. It’s not clear whether the system is a 3-4-3 or a 3-4-2-1, yet the players had different roles assigned and seemed to understand a more simple playing style.
3- JACK’S PERFORMANCE
Giacomo Bonaventura played in a more offensive position closer to the opponents’ goal and scored the match opener (last time he scored in the competition was against Udinese in January, when he suffered an injury). Jack also assisted Kalinic in the second goal (the provisional 1-2) and recorded 3 more attempts: one header on goal and two shots high over the bar. Suso did not create as many chances, but having Bonaventura back in good condition is definitely important for the team.
4- AN INTENSIVE WEEK
We played against Benevento after a series of intensive training sessions during the week. The risks and collateral damages were considered. This explains some of the conservative substitutions made during the game. As the winter break is coming, the team was forced to push and accelerate the hard work. Gennaro Gattuso is now the head coach and wants to show the results of his work from, both, a tactical and athletic point of view, as soon as possible.
5- THE INDIVIDUALS
Leonardo Bonucci and Franck Kessie have stood out for their improvements. Leo’s position is now more defensive and he has managed to be the reference when the defence is in control of the ball, showing good defensive recoveries even in the toughest moments of the match. Kessie was the real creator of the first goal and battled continuously against Benevento’s midfielders. Franck played a great game exhibiting his impressive physical conditions and determination.