The Frenchman scored his fourth goal in the league, solidifying the left-wing partnership with Leao: “Scudetto? No, let’s focus on our own game…”
His audacity has returned, he thrills the fans and admirers alike. In the 85th minute, Hernandez’s bold move exemplified this, almost nutmegging Juan Jesus surrounded only by blue shirts. Theo’s fearlessness shines on nights like the one yesterday, enabling him to accomplish even the most difficultโor most dangerousโfeats.
THEO AND LEAO MAKE THEAO
Milan team has ran a lot of distance on the road to the Champions League that bear Hernandez’s signature, and it’s great news for the Rossoneri because too often this season, the Frenchman had lost his way. Something was amiss, something wasn’t working, and perhaps one day he’ll explain it to us. This time, he couldn’t contain his excitement. Maybe because he found his groove in his own way, sprinting towards the goal like a high-speed train, which, despite being overused, remains the most effective metaphor to describe him when he tears down the wing. The ball was served by his younger ‘brother’ Leao. They arrived at Milanello together, and together they built Theao, potentially the strongest left flank in the world. After putting it in, Theo went to hug him, and it was a liberating embrace.
TACTICS AND MINDSET
T Lately, Theo has regained his rhythm. Two goals and an assist in the last five league games, and tonight the Frenchman demonstrated a significant leap in quality when coach’s needs briefly placed him in the center of defense. It’s a leap in quality because Theo effectively responded to the demands of playing in the center. “We went through a bit of a tough period, but we worked hard, and thanks to that, we’re winning,” he shared post-match. About the goal? “We didn’t plan it… I just do my job, which is to play well and make the fans happy. As for celebrations, I let my game speak. It’s true that there were games where I wasn’t good, but thanks to daily work, I’m improving. Leao is an incredible player; when he doesn’t score, he assists. People don’t see the work he puts in every day on the field, and we’re happy to have him like that. Scudetto? No. We focus on our job, and when the derby comes, we’ll think about it. Now, our minds are on Thursday.”
Pioli’s analysis of Theo is also intriguing: “He played some games in central defense out of necessity, and he was very accommodating. Last year, he struggled to overcome the disappointment of missing out on the World Cup, but this year I found him much more positive and proactive. He’s becoming a leader. He doesn’t speak much, but he is one. Playing as a center-back has shown him how attentive and aggressive he can be.”
