Leonardo and Maldini’s biggest mistake in January
After spending 70 million euros for Paqueta and Piatek, AC Milan’s January transfer window ended without the arrival of a new winger.
AC Milan was the club that spent the most in the January transfer market window. The Rossoneri invested €70 million for Lucas Paqueta to Krzysztof Piatek. Two excellent signings considering what both players have shown so far.
Considering his technical and tactical characteristics the Brazilian was a player who was missing at San Siro. The former Genoa striker has had a devastating impact making all the Rossoneri fans forget that, before Chelsea, Gonzalo Higuain used to play for Milan. The Rossoneri’s shopping campaign should have been completed with the arrival of a winger but that did not happen. Despite some inquiries and attempts, AC Milan did not sign a winger.
Unfortunately, not purchasing any player in that position turned out to be a mistake. We do not question the fact that Leonardo and Paolo Maldini tried to fill the gap in Gennaro Gattuso’s 4-3-3 but the lack of a third signing in January was absolutely a mistake. AC Milan’s offensive players have produced very little between goals and assists, a reinforcement was categorically needed to improve the team.
Between Suso, Calhanoglu (recently used as central midfielder), Castillejo and Borini, the overall contribution in goals and assists has been quite scarce. It was necessary to take a player with different characteristics. A fast winger, skilled in dribbling and therefore in splitting the opposing teams in two. A goalscorer and an assist-man at the same time.
In Gattuso’s 4-3-3 formation there is no player to succeed in this aspect with continuity. It is a great disadvantage and it cannot be denied. Obviously it is not always easy in the winter window to find the right player and the ideal economic conditions, especially after having already spent 70 million. That will certainly be AC Milan’s number one priority in the summer.