Several reasons underlie the high-level reflection by the ‘Rossoneri’ management, chief among them being the numerous injuries and a lack of ‘fire’ among the big players.
AC Milan are seriously reflecting on coach Stefano Pioli‘s position more than ever this morning. The Salerno draw away, despite Luka Jovic’s late equalizer, has left the ‘Rossoneri’ fans in a terrible mood. Neutral observers, and even the club itself are having big doubts now: this is a disjointed team, with the stars lacking the ‘sacred fire’ says ‘Gazetta dello Sport’. To add some fuel to the fire, Tomorri’s injury was 30th of the season. The standings on the other hand remain respectable – third place, although the top is now distant – but the recent matches are very concerning for the club.
As mentioned before, Milan always intended to finish this season with Pioli, but in football you never know, and today, thinking long-term is difficult for the club. Cardinale will make his decision very cautiously.
REASONS
The devaluation of the squad is the central element of reflection. The series of injuries take away Milan’s best players and affect results, leading to economic losses, as seen with the Champions League elimination. The unprecedented series of problems – over 20 in five months – is too evident. Pioli and his staff are logically considered responsible, among others, and some changes are likely on the horizon.
Moreover, seeing players lacking the sacred fire as ‘Gazetta’ put it, like Leao and Theo Hernandez last night, is a significant concern. President Cardinale expressed dissatisfaction in his Christmas message: “Like all of you, I am not satisfied with our current position in Serie A or the Champions League, but I know that sports competition is a marathon, not a sprint, and that continuity and persistence are virtues.” However, these words are not necessarily criticism of Pioli’s work.
MILAN’S DECISION
So, what happens now? There are no certainties for sure. President Cardinale, from a distance, can decide in one direction or another, stay with Pioli or move on. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, a top-level consultant, will undoubtedly have his say and influence, alongside CEO Giorgio Furlani and Geoffrey Moncada, a key figure in the transfer market.
Understanding the players’ opinions will likely be crucial. So far, even last night, the team has always reacted to difficulties, but the spirit of a team that plays to win the title has been missing for a while. Milan has a very tough decision to mae just two days before Christmas, as reported by the trusted ‘Gazetta dello Sport’.
