It was the season of ups and downs for Milan. What started as a thrilling campaign – with the team leading the Serie A table in the first half of the season – ended on a bittersweet note. On one hand, the Rossoneri secured their return to the Champions League after eight years of absence with a second place finish, but on the other hand, a second half skid threatened to ruin their entire campaign.
As usual, some players enjoyed a brilliant season, whilst others suffered a tough one. So let’s see who were, in our opinion, the best and worst performers in 2020-21.
Flop #3 – Sandro Tonali
Last summer, the Diavolo fans were thrilled to secure the signing of the Brescia golden boy at the expense of their city rivals Inter.
Unfortunately for the young Italian, he was never able to threaten the starting positions of Franck Kessié and Ismael Bennacer, and he even when the latter was out injured, Tonali’s performances left much to be desired.
At the tender age of 21, the midfielder will definitely improve in the coming years, but when playing for a top club like Milan, he won’t have the luxury of time on his side.
? SportMediaset: The future of Sandro Tonali is also in doubt. The young midfielder has not convinced everyone at Casa Milan, which is considering the opportunity to exercise the right to buy 15 million euros from Brescia. pic.twitter.com/G8zhcCNJCG
— Milan Posts (@MilanPosts) May 27, 2021
Top #3 – Gianluigi Donnarumma
It’s that awkward moment when you have to praise your ex. Despite his backdoor departure, the Rossoneri fans should admit that the goalkeeper had a stellar season.
Gigio’s blunders were far less this time around – in comparison with the previous seasons – and put up some solid displays right when his (former) side needed him the most.
—Eight years at Milan.
—251 senior appearances.
—Only 22 years old.Gianluigi Donnarumma will be looking for a new club this summer ? pic.twitter.com/eXJj3kIHOG
— B/R Football (@brfootball) May 26, 2021
Flop #2 – Alessio Romagnoli
Once upon a time in Milan (meaning few seasons ago), Alessio Romagnoli was the only certainty in defense for the club.
But in a shocking twist of fate, the captain became a bench warmer by the end of season. Whilst the arrival of Fikayo Tomori in January definitely played a part, the Italian’s inconsistent performances – including a poor display in the Derby against Inter – was the key reason behind Stefano Pioli’s decision.
Alessio #Romagnoli could leave #ACMilan this summer. #Rossoneri are working to sign Fikayo #Tomori on a permanent deal and Romagnoli is not a priority for coach #Pioli. The many benches of the last months cheated him out of Euro2020. #transfers https://t.co/K60wA8qaI7
— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) May 25, 2021
Top #2 – Theo Hernandez
This was the campaign where Theo truly cemented himself as one of the best left-backs in the world.
Whilst his defending is still in need of vast improvement, his skills, runs and crosses make him a menacing attacking force for the opposition.
This term, the Frenchman contributed with 7 goals and 6 assists in his 33 Serie A appearances. Incredible numbers for a member of the back-four.
Theo Hernandez makes Whoscored’s Europe’s Top 5 Leagues Team of the Season pic.twitter.com/er1HnGtHU4
— Milan Eye (@MilanEye) May 26, 2021
Flop #1 – Mario Mandzukic
“Mario Mandzukic played for Milan? I totally forgot about that!” – Some random calcio fan in the future.
Whilst the Croatian remains a hugely popular figure at Juventus due to his many exploits, his time at the San Siro suggests that his best days are well-behind him.
Since arriving in January, the former Bayern Munich striker never seemed to be fully fit, and made only 11 appearances in all competitions – only once as a starter – and failed to score a single goal. A truly forgettable stint.
Mario Mandžukić has decided to donate his March, April and May AC Milan salary to the club's charity foundation because he was unavailable for selection. ? pic.twitter.com/5wlNs8g6eh
— Football Tweet (@Football__Tweet) May 27, 2021
Top #1 – Franck Kessié
When Zlatan Ibrahimovic decides to step aside whilst admitting that you’re better than him at a particular thing (taking penalties for instance), then you must be doing something right.
“The President” was the ultimate star of the season at Milan, turning into a truly complete midfielder.
The Ivorian very rarely missed a match, and contributed with 13 goals and 6 assists in his 37 Serie A appearances, whilst also acting as major force in the middle of the pitch.
What more do you need?!
It’s time to start talking about Franck Kessie as one of the best in the world in his position, not just as one of the best in Serie A.
Mammoth season. pic.twitter.com/diMKJ6GJ9o
— Matteo Bonetti (@Bonetti) May 24, 2021