Compared to other top European nations, the transfer market in Italy had been a dull affair. Yet, the big Serie A boys still managed to bolster their ranks, even by low-cost means. But the quietest Calcio giant this market was undoubtedly the reining champions themselves. Paolo Maldini and Ricky Massara only added a few names to the Milan squad. So did the Rossoneri rest on their laurels following their first Scudetto triumph in eleven years, or did they opt for quality rather than quantity?
In this article, we’ll compare Milan’s current squad to the one that was at the manager’s disposal last season, starting with the goalkeepers all the way to the strikers.
Goalkeepers
In: None
Out: None
For the second season in a row, Mike Maignan will be the ultimate first choice between the sticks, with Ciprian Tătăruşanu as his understudy and the vastly-experienced Antonio Mirante acting as a third choice.
Therefore, the department remains unchanged, but Maignan’s ever-growing confidence and experience in Serie A will only consolidate his position as one of the best custodians in the league, if not the very best.
Verdict: The names are the same, but Maignan could grow even stronger this season.
Defenders
In: Malick Thiaw, Sergino Dest
Out: Alessio Romagnoli
By buying Alessandro Florenzi’s outrights, Milan were hoping to maintain the same fullback department, but the latter’s injury prompted a last-minute addition in Sergino Dest.
Moreover, the departure of their former captain Alessio Romagnoli shook things up a bit at the heart of the defense.
New signing Malick Thiaw remains a mystery package, and will have a mountain to climb in order to cement himself a regular spot, especially following the return of Simon Kjaer.
So the Rossoneri may have lost their longtime serving skipper, but it’s worth noting that he had already been relegated to the bench by the formidable partnership of Pierre Kalulu and Fikayo Tomori.
Verdict: Stronger thanks to Kalulu and Tomori’s ever-flourishing partnership.
Central Midfielders
In: Tommaso Pobega, Aster Vranckx
Out: Franck Kessié
A host of reputable names were linked to Milan throughout the summer transfer market, as the management was hoping to bolster the squad with a solid midfielder.
At the end of day, Tommaso Pobega turned out to be the main addition to the middle of the park, as the Italian returns from an impressive loan stint at Torino.
Furthermore, the young Aster Vranckx will be hoping to become the new Kalulu by making a swift rise through the ranks.
Even though Franck Kessié’s last campaign at the club was slightly disappointing on a personal level, the Ivorian remains one of the strongest Serie A midfielders of the last five years, and one can’t help but feel that his absence will be noticeable in the double pivot, especially without the arrival of a suitable replacement.
Sandro Tonali and Ismael Bennacer will do their best to make up for the shortage, but this department isn’t the same without “The President”.
Verdict: Weaker.
Wingers/Attacking Midfielders
In: Charles De Ketelaere, Yacine Adli
Out: Samu Castillejo
Maldini and Massara spent the majority of the summer chasing Charles De Ketelaere, and the early signs suggest that the Belgian was worth every minute and every penny.
In the former Club Brugge youngster, Milan now possess a brilliant playmaker who can make all the difference with his elegant touch and fabulous skills.
Fellow new arrival Yacine Adli appears lost in the shuffle at the moment, but he could still end up playing a significant role at some point if given a proper chance.
Verdict: More Quality, additional depth. Undoubtedly stronger
Strikers
In: Divock Origi
Out: None
Due to the advanced ages of Olivier Giroud and Zlatan Ibrahimovic – in addition to the Swede’s de facto “part-time” status – the Diavolo simply had to add another striker to the mix.
However, the choice sparked a major debate, with many doubting Divock Origi’s credentials and his ability to prove himself as a useful addition to the Milan squad.
At Liverpool, the Belgian was regarded as a local hero and a benchwarmer at the same time. At Milanello, the 27-year-old’s early days have been split between the dugout and the nursery, which doesn’t exactly forecast a bright future. But at this point, a final judgement would be greatly immature.
Verdict: Better depth, but the level of quality remains inconclusive.
Conclusion
As we’ve seen above, the center forward position remains a doubt for the club, but the hierarchy managed to bolster the supporting crew with the addition of two vastly promising young talent (especially De Ketelaere).
Although the midfield might prove to be the biggest question mark, we lean towards giving Milan the benefit of the doubt, and state that this season’s squad is stronger than its predecessor.
Perhaps the replacements of Kessié and Romagnoli are far from top class, but the Rossoneri’s most undermined boon remains its juvenile core of star players.
In the likes of Theo Hernandez, Kaluku, Tomori, Tonali and Rafael Leao, Milan possess a plethora of young and hungry players who haven’t yet reached their full potential despite their great exploits last season.
Therefore, Pioli can rest assured that his project is on the right path, even if one or two extra arrivals would have put the whole debate to rest.
 |
Follow us on Google News for more updates on Serie A and Italian football |