In yesterday’s pre Milan-Olympiacos press conference, coach Gennaro Gattuso touched on many issues and also commented on the situation of some of his stars.
Among the players that have disappointed so far with their performances there is also Hakan Calhanoglu. After his excellent debut match in the league against Roma and the international break, his displays have been underwhelming ever since. Nonetheless, Gattuso always keeps him in the starting eleven, hoping that the Rossoneri number 10 can up his level soon.
Already against Sassuolo the Turkish winger seemed more involved in the game and was author of a decisive assist: “Calhanoglu must not think too much, he is fundamental to us. He must go in search of precision, he should not be nervous when he makes a mistake. Hakan must believe, without wasting time and remain calm. Against Roma he played all over the pitch and in Reggio Emilia he was fundamental at the technical-tactical level“.
Finally, a brief comment on two other players, who today will probably start from the first minute, namely Samu Castillejo and Cristian Zapata: “Castillejo is an important alternative, he gives us depth, quality and sacrifice. He can also play as second striker. Zapata does not have 90 minutes in his legs, but at this moment we must give him a chance from the start. He trains with great desire and is also giving us so much in the locker room. If he can concentrate in the game he has everything we could ask for“.