The third place seems secure. The team can focus on the Europa League, trying to go all the way.
Milan is in the middle of their campaing which says: far from the top, but ahead of the rest of the competition. Drawing with Bologna ended any hope for the league title, which is not the main goal anyway. The focus is to get a Champions League spot; Milan’s 12-point lead over fifth place is huge and relaxing.
No room for mistakes regardless; they aim to widen the gap. It’s standard procedure: the path to success goes through Europe. In February, Milan faces Rennes in the Europa League round of 32. Rennes, ninth in Ligue 1, isn’t intimidating. If attention shifts to Europe, Pioli‘s men will handle it seriously. This isn’t for the second-string players; Milan relies on its leaders. Winning this trophy is the final goal on the season, and this cup specificaly is yet to be in the Rossoneri’s cabinet.
THE PATH TO THE TROPHY
It won’t be an easy path, indeed. The real challenges will come right after Rennes (If Milan manages to eliminate them). Already qualified for the round of 16 as group winners are: West Ham, De Zerbi’s Brighton, Rangers, Atalanta, Liverpool, Villarreal, Sparta Prague, and Leverkusen. If Milan gets past Rennes, they’ll find out on February 24 where the draw takes them for the round of 16. There’s a territorial criterion, so teams from the same country can’t face each other (potentially Roma and Atalanta). No restrictions from the quarterfinals onwards. Liverpool, leading the Premier League, and Bayer Leverkusen, currently at the top of the Bundesliga, are the most formidable opponents.
THE BIG PICTURE
If the second half of the season risks being less exciting in the league, the Europa League can ignite Milan and their dreams. It may not bring in the same revenue or visibility as the Champions League, but an European win would still boost the club’s international image. The early-season illusion, when the new Milan seemed equipped for the top of the table, has faded. The journey in the Coppa Italia ended with a loss to Atalanta, barely stepping into the tournament: In the Europa League, it’s different: there’s still room for dreams, and Milan will rely on its best players to try to make them come true. The Europa League becomes the season’s focus.
