Testing period for AC Milan

For Massimiliano Allegri’s AC Milan, this month is going to be decisive in how the season pans out for them. The Rossonero’s opponents for the next eight games are: Napoli, Juventus, Udinese, Arsenal, Cesena & Juventus. In February, Milan play Napoli, Udinese, Cesena and Juventus in the League, then they also have a two legged Coppa Italia Semifinal with Juventus and last but not the least, they play the home leg of their Last 16 clash with Arsenal.

These games are sure to determine how many trophies AC Milan are going to win this season. One wonders if this was the reason behind Milan reinforcing their squad with several signings on the last day of the January transfer window. After a poor start to the season that saw them pick only 5 points in the first 5 games, Milan got their campaign back on track with a record of 12w-2L-2D and are currently sitting second behind the unbeaten Juventus. But, when one analyzes their track record against the top teams they have faced this season, Milan have only won once and lost five times in eight matches. On the other hand, they have won 12 and drawn 2 of their 14 matches against relatively weaker sides in the league(any team not in the top 6 in the Serie A). This is a stark contrast to the Milan of the past decade when they were formidable proposition in Europe but failed to beat weaker teams in the League.

During this season, Allegri’s first choice midfield has consisted of Van Bommel, screening the back four, flanked by Nocerino and another player and Boateng playing in the trequarista role. This has given Milan greater pressing in the midfield and hence greater possession which has allowed them to decimate smaller teams with ease but has led to a lack of creativity which is crucial in beating more organized defences. Despite the departure of Pirlo during the summer, Allegri has the likes of Robinho, Cassano and Aquilani who can be creative. While Aquilani has been sparingly used, partly due to his injuries, Robinho and Cassano have been under-utilised by Allegri as he has gone for solidity and not flamboyance. This was also the reason behind the sale of Ronaldinho and Andrea Pirlo and Allegri’s likening for athletic, disciplined and reliable midfielders.

In order to have a successful February and hence a successful season, Allegri will have to be more adventurous or else Milan will end up with zero trophies this season. Milan was barely challenged last season by any team but this season they are feeling the heat from Juventus who are so far unbeaten. An interesting February beckons at Milan.