ESPN Soccernet - Correspondents - AC MILAN

Posted by Matteo Bonetti on 11/27/2010

As the season moves on, a few things are becoming clearer. Some of the players we've been accustomed to seeing over the years are being slowly fazed out of the starting eleven.

Today's 1-1 tie with Sampdoria showed a team with a newfound sense of confidence. Allegri (despite some curious flaws which we'll talk about later) has the team at the top of the Serie A with a three point lead over Lazio.

Let's touch on some of the revolutionary changes taking place at Milan:

- Ronaldinho is no longer a certainty in the line-up. His recent late night escapades have been thoroughly documented by the Italian media. Allegri was quoted as saying that these are not "behaviours compatible with the life a professional footballer needs to lead." Ronaldinho's days at Milan are numbered.

- Today Allegri put Ronaldinho in the game in stoppage time. Almost an insult to a Balon d'Or winner. What Massimiliano has to realize is that he isn't coaching Cagliari anymore, a side that would be content with a 1-1 draw at the Marassi stadium. So what is Allegri's mentality here? Was he pulling the old provincial side manoeuvre of shedding time off the clock in hopes of hearing the referees whistle signal the end? Did he seriously think Ronaldinho could come in for a few minutes and pull another stunt like he did at Auxerre? It was obvious at around the 60th minute that a change for Slowdorf had to be made. Now this is just my opinion, but it seems Allegri always takes ten minutes too long to make a substitution. Milan deflated faster than a punctured hot air balloon after Pazzini scored a goal on one of Sampdoria's only occasions all game. Right after the goal, he should have put in Flamini & Ronaldinho (who were both put in at the 90th minute). Head scratching decision, and almost insulting to Ronaldinho. The commentators on FSC Espanol also noted this, so I know I'm not alone in my rant.

- Milan are playing better without Andrea Pirlo. While Pirlo will provide the occasional brilliant pass, he often loses possession with his signature ballerina twirl dribbles right in front of the Milan defence, leading to dangerous counter-attacks as he clumsily chases after the opponents. A Milan midfield composed of Seedorf and Pirlo is undoubtedly the slowest on the planet. The only team with a comparable snail paced midfield is when Italy decides to hold a charity football match between 80 year old former singers and actors vs. gray haired coaches. Pirlo's contract expires at the end of the season and there are rumours Chelsea and Barcelona are interest in his services.

Have we seen the last of Pirlo and his floppy hair gracing the San Siro? ©AP

- This new 4-3-1-2 formation allows Allegri to place three hounds in the midfield, composed of either Gattuso, Ambrosini, Flamini, or Boateng, who make up for Seedorf, who at times seems rooted like a fig in the turf of the San Siro. If you remember the match against Bari, this is the first time Allegri tried this formation due to injury, and it was one of the best games Milan has played all year. If you have something that works, stick with it.

- Robinho keeps improving. As the confidence blooms, we see more of his joga bonito on the pitch, which is always refreshing. Also, the chemistry he has formed with Ibrahimovic leads to one of them always assisting the other on most of Milan's goals. Another player who impresses me is Abate. His defensive skills went from being absolutely atrocious, to modestly mediocre. Today he saved a near goal from one of many curious mistakes by Alessandro Nesta. We have our right back of the future.

- Any formation where Bonera is slotted as a fullback must be immediately viewed as a three man defensive line. Bonera pushes forward about as much as Abbiati. If he is on either flank, you can be sure to expect absolutely nothing coming from that side for the duration of the match. Never thought I'd say this but, I miss Antonini.

- I'm curious to see who Milan will pick up as a striker in the January transfer window. I'd be somewhat amused and morbidly horrified if Ibrahimovic goes down with injuries before Christmas. Who would Allegri use as a striker? Oddo? Would we switch to the first ever formation without a real striker and just play the 90 pound Robinho up front? Makes me wish we still had Borriello, who has been scoring in bunches for Roma. The question of the day is, realistically, what striker would you want Milan to bring in as a substitute for Ibra? Please don't say Dzeko. He isn't coming in January. We co-own Superpippo version 2.0 - Parma striker Alberto Paloschi, who Inzaghi himself dubbed as his natural successor, and the player right now that reminds him the most of... himself.. Those are strong words coming from a legend.

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Comments

Posted by Jonathan Acosta on 11/28/2010

A good forward for Milan could be Diego Forlan,Fernando Torres, or Jeronimo Baretto Cacau, they are good options, but Allgri shoulg also look for a fast midfilder like Gareth Bale, he also should help a lot.

Posted by horo2 on 11/28/2010

On my observation,we didn't play bad last night,we were playing offensively all the time especially last 20 minutes,meanwhile Sampdoria just defend and hope for speed counter attack,with their dangerous long ball..like their coach know a lot that one of Milan biggest weakness is the slow defender we have,and a goal keeper who weak with upper balls,

Ok but I 100% agree with you that the only weird and makes me toss my head on the wall is the sub decision!I just don't understand at all why did Allegri put Flam and Roonie on 90 minutes??!

And we even play more and more offensive with Flam and Roonie occasionally help Ibra and Robinho to blast Curci's goal, but 5 minutes isn't enough :(

And 1 more positive side we had last night is our baby R70 is more and more improving day to day, same as Abate.

Posted by Roy Ahmad on 11/28/2010

Why dont we put Verdi or Merkel up? Anyway, Matri or Paloschi could be a realistic option i guess. Keep twitting dude! love ur twit a lot :D

Posted by Vangel Krstevski on 11/28/2010

In my opinion Milan should bring back Paloschi and use Verdi for this season as subs for Ibra, Binho and Pato. Also rotate Seedorf and Dinho more often. We need another midfielder because Ambro and Rino can't play every game for the rest of the season. Instead of spending money Milan should use more often De Vito, Merkel and Strasser. In the summer, let go Pirlo, Ronaldinho, Seedorf and buy a left back, central defender, right back, 2 midfielders and 1 AMC.

Posted by Anthony on 11/28/2010

Brilliant summary of the match, I have been sure to bookmark your page and will check back frequently. As it goes with our striker dilemma, Paloschi has been spotted at Milanello taking tests to see how long it will take for him to recover from injury, that is something that could make or break his deal. I think our 12m euro bid for Matri was final and once it was rejected Galliani did not plan to make another big and probably won't. I hope we get Paloschi, so many good things about him and he is only 20. Anyone know how much longer until Odumandi is fit again?

Posted by iwc24 on 11/28/2010

Matteo,
love ur posts. I was wondering though, have u ever given a thought to try pirlo in seedorf's position? I know he played for italy there a couple of times. He's just as slow but younger so i think we could get a couple of years more from him and try to sell seedorf instead. Overral, i think we need to get a quality cb first to give nesta some rest because that's the only way he'll be able to last a whole season and play for more years. On the striker part, i don't think we need much help. Once pato comes back we'll have one more option and if we sign somebody in january, what are we going to do when they're all healthy?? On top of that, i still think berlusconi won't want to spend too much in the next couple of windows so why waste it on a striker if we already have good ones

Posted by Matteo Bonetti on 11/28/2010

@iwc24

Oh I've always said Pirlo would flourish in Seedorf's position. That's the position he is sometimes deployed as in the Italian National team. But yes a quality CB is imperative. I'd go for somebody like Ranocchia of Genoa. He'd be a great successor to Nesta.

Thanks for the support!

Posted by aafrican on 11/28/2010

Alberto Paloschi is a great choice for a striker for Milan, but we dont need strikers. no more. we have ronaldinho on the bench for what reason?
USE HIM Allegri!
pato will come out after Christmas time.
so no need for another striker.
i don't understand what Allegri is doing with the 2 last minute subbings at the same time.
i was not impressed today at all with allegri.
and as of Ronaldinho, this is a disgrace to him i feel like.

Posted by Allen on 11/28/2010

no more strikers....let milan buy a few good wing backs and replacements for Nesta...And what we need is a creative midfield...Allegri expects Ibra to score,create and defend...If this formation has to work then someone very fast like how kaka used to be is needed in seedorf's place...

Posted by dapint on 11/28/2010

Allegri well done sir, keep up the good work. Its been quite a while we have seen milan with such purpose. Anyways, I'd say rotating Seedorf, Dinho and Pirlo in the CAM position should be an integral tactics, but the basics for playing any of these CAM's especially Dinho or Seedorf should be that three of either Flamini, Boateng, Gattuso, Ambrosinni should be on the pitch. We should start grooming strasser for subbing gattuso or Ambrosinni because if the later two can't play 3 games (270mins) straight. Fatigue would set in by the 200th min and they would be very crappy in the 3rd game. As for the Defense, Abate well done too, this is what continuous playing time for a young player does to him improves his confidence and cohesion with the team improves. I think Bonera and Sokratis needs a psychologist that would psyche both of them up especially Sokratis. He should be subbing Nesta from like 80th mins to boost his confidence and cohesion with Thiago (Nesta's successor to me is Thiago we need someone that would bond with thiago) what we lack in Defence is Left full back, Zambrotta can't play two good games, there would be too many flaws. I miss Antonini.. Finally for the Attackers Ibra, Binho and Pato is good enough for me, Probably someone else I don't know who but some one that can take up Ibra anytime he is injured

Posted by RizzoSports.com on 11/28/2010

The problem in this game was Allegri he consistently doesn't sub enough, and again was the case today. I'd like to see Milan try Pato in the Seedorf once he is healthy.

Posted by Johan on 11/28/2010

I'd love to get Pastore from Palermo, but that's not going to happen. Just like Gareth Bale won't leave Tottenham anytime soon (but one can always dream).

If Allegri isn't going to use Ronaldinho anymore, then Milan should just go ahead and make the deal with Man City for Balotelli. Makes no sense to have Dinho on the bench.

I really liked your idea in an earlier post where you suggested Milan going after Ganso. What a dream acquisition that would be. Together with Neymar, they're the top two young talents in Brazil right now. Robinho played with him for a bit while on loan at Santos, so he would ease the transition for the 20-year-old.

A replacement for Nesta is almost more pressing, however, as the old cornerstone is starting to show its cracks. Dani Alvez is supposedly leaving Barca in June...just saying.

An immediate improvement to the team would be to start Boateng. The whole midfield comes alive when he's on the pitch.

Posted by Brice on 11/28/2010

I also think we are pretty set at the forward postition and Berlusconi won't spill for a big name. As far as filling up the mid-field and defense I think we should look into low-money bids for quality players in smaller leagues. Off the top of my head I was thinking we could go rescue Blumer Elano from Turkey and he could replace the dutchman. Vagner Love is a young and attacking minded defenseman stuck in Russia that comes from Thiago's native Brazill. Also, to fill in for injuries; if we aren't going to promote from within, why not make some short term MLS loan deals until we are back to health?

Just some thoughts

Posted by RobStyles on 11/28/2010

Like everyone else I agree that we should hold off on signing another striker in Jan when there are several other more pressing needs at the moment ie CB, FB and MF. At forward we can make due with Ronnie and Verdi (who should see some time) until Pato regains his health, and even when Pato returns I don't see why R80 can't be added to the mix of strikers; who knows, it could be a chance for him to reinvent himself and revitalize his career.

What is going on with Pirlo? Is he injured? I agree that he would slot in nicely at the CAM and has more to offer than Seedorf as he is a better passer, shooter and free kick taker (another thing we lack right now without Pirlo and R80 on the field).

And Allegri's use of subs lately is beginning to give me flashbacks of Hans Backe this season (I'm a NY Red Bull fan as well). 30+ midfielders + 7 matches in 4 weeks - rest = disaster waiting to happen. Is he serious?

I am looking forward to Coppa Italia this season... to be continued

Posted by RobStyles on 11/28/2010

..it will give us a chance to see what we have in all of our young guys who won the Primavera last year. Maybe we can even see Gooch get some PT finally!

This team has the potential to do well this year and build a foundation for a strong Champions League run next year, let's just hope Allegri can man up and play with the big boys.

Posted by kelon on 11/29/2010

matteo
i guess u seem to see through the same eye as me when it comes to milan,i think alegri shud use dinho,much more than slowdorf but the coach has his elsewhere,lovin abate and nesta's gettin down we also need a left back

the old boys arent simply whole season material,but bein top thanks alegri an keep it up seeing im now gettin a little use to bein at the top

Posted by Darin P on 11/29/2010

I agree we need another fwd, but we also need a defender as well. I agree why make the sub at 90 minutes? It gives Ronnie no time. I really think we need another outside defender who can get forward. Keep doing a great job and forza Rossoneri!

Posted by Desilolla on 11/29/2010

Egregio Signore Bonetti!!

Allegri is disrespecting me and all other football fans by ”destroying” Dinhos career. People can claim that he gets what he deserve due to his lifestyle, but as long as he performs (even at 50% Dinho is way better then Seedorf and Binho) he should start every match. El Pibe de Oro(Maradona) was a drug addict and Pibe de Bari(Cassano) has his own problems, but these are geniuses and nobody cares what they do outside the pitch as long as they performs. It pisses me off that Allegri behaves like an A**hole and gives Dinho just 3minutes to play. Allegri is a loser and Milan plays terrible under his command, despite leading SeriaA. During Leo’s tenure Milan had an identity and played beautiful football, with Allegri they are simply lucky and are to dependent on Zlatan. Everybody knows that Zlatan never-ever performs against strong sides. He scored against a weak Inter and against an inexperienced Juve. But he is not like Pippo who can score against all teams.

Posted by Desilolla on 11/29/2010

To use Seedorf is ok, maybe too slow, but he can pass and has good vision. The problem is Zlatan and Binho, they’re moving too much. Zlatan should be a target man or a box-player. With Boriello, Milan had a target man that Dinho and Seedorf could give pint-point passes to. Robinho is just speed, nothing more. He can’t pass or play as a team player. Like Zlatan he has no vision and is often caught offside. If Allegri thinks that Binho can give more strength and flair then Dinho to the team then he should retire. The only reason Mancini got rid of him was because he was useless(the same reason Schuster kicked him out of Bernabeu). It’s sad that Pirlo and Dinho have been made scapegoats, cuz they’re not the problem. Pirlo is used wrong, and that’s not his fault. He should play as trequartista instead of Seedorf and not as a deep-lying playmaker. Everybody knows that Pirlo is not a defensive player. He is not a great tackler, he is no presence physically and he lacks aggression.

Posted by Desilolla on 11/29/2010

Flamini and Boateng have been tremendous just like Ambrosini. But Boa is the only one who has good technique. Flamini, Ambro and Gattuso are good tacklers and runners but the matter of fact is that they are useless with the ball. Milan lack players like Banega and Essien(Edgard Davids and Makeleles heritage). They need players who can give killer passes, shoot from distance, give some attacking flair and still be exellent in their defensive play. The only thing Milan have been good on this season is to slow the play, except against Catania, Real and Juve were they struggled due to lack of tempo. Against Samp, Nesta struggled against Pazz and was saved by Abate several times. Zamb, Bonera and Oddo are too old and slow and should be replaced.
Allegri must rethink his goals and strategy, he is coaching Milan and not a SeriaC team. Play Dinho or loose ur job.

Posted by punditguy on 11/29/2010

I would love to see Paloschi return but as for a replacement striker in the middle of the season doesnt sound to 'secure'. He doesnt have much experience. But the striker im really hoping to see is Alessandro Matri!

1. He has good killer instincts. 2. He is a good fox in the box striker, some one who Zlatan can play behind, like Inzaghi. 3. He is faster unlike Borriello. 4. Max has worked with him at Cagliari so he knows how to use this player to the best of his abilities. 5. He came out of the Milan youth sector, he has Milan in his blood!

Posted by punditguy on 11/29/2010

MATTEO

Do you really think we need a striker in January? Why not a RB,CB, or Midfielder?

Posted by lims on 11/29/2010

i dont agree that milan dont need pirlo anymore, match like sampdoria's game, pirlo will be the much needed creative on the field or either he will scores another wonder goal like he did last month.

Posted by Milan 1963 on 11/29/2010

Hi Matteo,
I again must say I agree with your analysis. I start to really strongly believe that some players are untouchable (Slow, Rino, Ambro and Pirlo) and if they are not injured, they will get to play on and on and on until they are squashed like lemons. Why resting Flamini who played much less than Gattuso and Ambrosini for Boateng??? Why these changes so late in the game...does not make sense to me. Boa and Flamini are younger so they should play more with Ambro and Ringhio rotating, so they keep their sharpness. I agree that when Pirlo is back he should not play at his usual place in the middle because as you say it very well his twirly dancing dribbling are more dangerous against us than against the opponents. He should be rotating with Clarence and Dinho. On the other hand I would also like to see more of the younger dudes, but when you are leading the table you don't want to take too many chances and want to rely on solid structure. So far so good Forza Rossoneri.

Posted by Matteo Bonetti on 11/29/2010

@Desilolla

You make a very good point about Ronaldinho. Even 50% of Ronnie is more valuable that 110% of Slowdorf. But Allegri needs to adhere to team rules and not let one player have special treatment just because he's a superstar. I like Allegri's no nonsense approach so far.

@Punditguy

We desperately need a striker now that Inzaghi's gone. Who would play if Ibra went down with injuries? Giacomo Beretta? Bring on someone with experience.

@Milan 1963

You raise a good point about having to rotate Ambrosini & Gattuso instead of Flamini/Boateng. If it were up to me I'd start Ambro/Gattuso in the MIDDLE of midfield, and Flamini and Boateng more on the side, so they can use their pace to chase wingers and also provide a little offensive spark whenever necessary.

Posted by idowu on 11/29/2010

it's a very good analysis lad,u made a very strong point saying if ibra go on the injury bench b4 christmas or looses form are we gonna depend on the johnny just come robinho that is yet to fully adapt to italian football though he's been improving every game. january transfer window opens i would love milan to get cagliari's matri, he's a very good option but let see hoe it goes. and for max allegri things has been working real good for him and he also needs to realise that there are some mistakes he's doing that even me i know what to do then but anyway it he's job. i just hope we will sign a better striker other than a dzeko,cassano,fabiano.

Posted by Jerrod on 11/29/2010

Matteo, brilliant article as usual but I don't think we need a striker. We have Pato who will be back soon enough and he is phenomenol. Also what do you think about Oduamadi in the future? and Gareth Bale is looking to make a move to the Serie A in January so do you think Milan could get him? He would be an outstanding pickup for our midfield. He is sssoooo fast and really talented. Still on the way up too. What do you think?

Posted by Pagliuca on 11/29/2010

Matteo

All Milanistas think alike!(lol). Agreed, as soon as we gave up that goal. The "Clueless" one should have taken off Seedorf for Roni and choose either Ambro/Ringho for Flamini. As for Pirlo, I like the zombie but not in his deep role any more. Notice when we played Inter, as soon as he took off Rino and put Pirlo. We slowed down a lot. But in order to make this MF "milanesque" we need another No 10 MF. So our search should be for Seedorf's and Pirlo's replacement. What about Gago? I think we can resurect his career? Bonera is liability. He's not what he was in 07 or 09. If knucklhead would have moved up with Thiago/Nesta the off-sides would have been called but yet he just stood there. He should not play and maybe CB. As for the January sales? I say we try Verdi as punta or use the Mercato. Why are we not using Montelengo or Albertazzi in defense? Ranocinna would be good but he's half owned by Juve. Don't know if we can get that. Only striker, I see is Balo in January.

Posted by maithani on 11/29/2010

Thanks for your blogs Matteo. Your articles give all of us Rossoneri fans a platform to discuss our views.
I believe if we do get a striker in winter it would be from the Serie A.
My first choice purchase would be Giampaolo Pazzini. I am not saying this because he scored against us rather I believe this guy to be a box predator who can ease the goal scoring pressure from Zlatan's shoulder. Also having him would mean that Zlatan can roam around freely rather than being glued to the box.
My second choice would be Edinson Cavani. Apart from his goal scoring abilities, this guy would bring pace to our front line which in the absence of Pato looks very ineffective on counter attacks.

These two choices would prove costly and I am not sure if Samp and Napoli would let go of their star players.
So in practical terms I would not mind Paloschi coming in. I would definitely like to see a full back also signed apart from a forward.
Also Matteo, what do you think of Pirlo playing as trequartisa?

Posted by Matteo Bonetti on 11/29/2010

@Jerrod

Gareth Bale would be a dream signing for us as he'd start left back immediately but I don't see it happening for the simple fact that he is going to cost way too much.

@Pagliuca

The #1 central defender I'd go for is Ranocchia. Other than that, the reason Allegri doesn't play any of the youngsters is beyond me. Merkel deserves a spot on the team. Montelongo I haven't seen enough of to comment, but I'm sure he gives a more attacking threat than Boneheadera.

@Maithani

The comments you guys leave make it all worthwhile! It's great to hear Milan opinion from all around the world. Moving on, Pazzini would be a huge reach. First off, would he be fine with sitting on the bench backing up Ibra? And would Milan spend 20m+ on a backup striker? Pirlo as a trequartista is something I've been wanting for several years now. Not sure why Allegri hasn't put him in his NATURAL position yet.

Posted by Sau on 11/29/2010

How about Kranjcar? He's been unhappy on the bench at Spurs, and has indicated that he would like to move to Italy. True, he would be cup-tied for the Champions League, but I think he could provide the pace that Seedorf is missing. I have a feeling he could thrive on a central position, just playing off of the two forwards. His passing is great, he can run when he needs to, and he's been scoring in bunches for his country, at least. I suppose the main worry would be rustiness, but that is a risk worth taking. We need another striker and center back as well, but Kranjcar is available, and I think Milan should definitely go for him.

Posted by ziad on 11/29/2010

I agree with everything you said except seedorf he's a great player, he might be slow but he has great vision...As for the midfielders not a lot of people know this but abate is a midfielder ....and he could really make a difference in that area...I mean once he hits top speed he's gone..and he's not bad at providing plays either. But the problem about this is we won't have a RB. We could use oddo but as we know he shows up for one game then gets injured. Last...Dino and pirlo once he gets back need more playing time at least for 30 minutes cause that's when seedorf gets really tired.

Posted by Jerrod on 11/29/2010

Yes, I agree with your response that Bale would cost too much but what about Cassano? I'm not yet sure how he would fit into the lineup but he's really talented and off Sampdoria so we could get him for cheap possible. What do you think would be a good signing in January Matteo?

Posted by maithani on 11/29/2010

I agree with you; Neither would Milan spend so much on a backup striker nor would Pazzini/Cavani be ready for a bench warming role.
My only concern is if Zlatan got injured or went on a dry spell and given Pato's injury proneness we might struggle for goals in case these two adverse situations coincided with each other.

Hopefully we will acquire Paloschi in winter.

Wouldn't it be a good idea to give a Primavera forward like Verdi some playing time off the bench, to give him some confidence and have a potential backup ready?

One thing that we have been good at doing off lately is getting players on loan. Balotelli might be on his way to Milan in summer, thus I wouldn't be surprised if we get a forward player on loan in winter.
Also don't you think Ronaldinho might be on his way out the way he has been sidelined and possibly humiliated by the very late substitutions?

Posted by Jerrod on 11/30/2010

Posted by Novan on 11/30/2010

I really like your analysss.It's brilliant.I think Milan really need Centre Back and Wing Back right now. Because Nesta and Zambrotta are too fragile. I think Abate, Bacary Sagna, and Ranocchia can be the option.For WB, I can't see better option than Bale (because he can play as LB and LW) and Alves. Neymar should be a good addition for this team. Seedorf and Ambrosini really have to go on July. They are too slow. Milan need new creator on midfield. Ronaldinho should be enough but he can't play all season.Samir Nasri is really a good option. And for the striker. Milan have a lot. But this season, Allegri depend on Ibra too much. He can be in serious injured if he dont get rest. Paloschi is a realistic option.

Posted by Rodrigo on 11/30/2010

Allegri should renew the team's midfield, an objective that has been put off for years. Gareth Bale would be the best option and the smartest way to go but I would also like Sneijder (I know its farfetched, I like Forlan and Di Natale as possible forwards and Clichy in the back with Thiago Silva.

Posted by Nitin K on 11/30/2010

"Superpippo version 2.0" hahahahaha, thats funny, thining of Pippo Inzaghi, no skill, total poacher. Yeah lets hope Version 2.0 has more qualities.

Posted by Soto on 11/30/2010

i can not understand why every milan coach is not smart and use the right players..???? an ideal formation would be:
ABBIATI
ABATE NESTA THIAGO ANTONINI
AMBROSINI
FLAMINI BOATENG
RONALDINHO
PATO IBRA

and the subs should be gattuso or pirlo for ambrosini...robinho for ronaldinho..and the tird one depends on the sittuation..
now for the transfer market i agree will all of you.. i think if milan want to be competitive enough in the champios league should get :
bale,david luiz,and some replacements for milan's veteran company..and our youngsters must get some playing time..in order to improve themselves strasser,sokratis,merkel,..
i think that this year the champinoship is ours..
now about the chapions league..mmm i only hope that we will face an easy opponent in the next round,,,i would not mind we face man unt again..i want some revenge...
WHAT DO YOU THINK MATTEO?

Posted by Joel Shumaker on 11/30/2010

In your dreams J.Costa...

Posted by Lo Sconscuito on 12/01/2010

Milan does need to find another striker, because Ibra and Robinho will surely fall off badly as the season progresses. Front-runners like them always do.

Gattuso, Ambrosini, Flamini, Boateng? There's not a single accurate passer in that lot. Not in a forward direction, at least. Flamini just plain sucks. Hated him at Arsenal, and he's done nothing in Milan.

They can't afford Bale(who, by the bye, is a midfielder, not a left back, mainly because he's a weak defender), neither Sagna nor Clichy are leaving Arsenal, and Forlan, why the hell would he leave Athleti?. Milan certainly isn't going offer him big money. Milan can't really afford anyone except other sides' rejects. Should have never let Borriello go, he works twice as hard as that Swedish plank.

Milan are topping the table, so what exactly is Allegri doing wrong.

Posted by jydough on 12/01/2010

we definitely need a striker in january. bringin paloschi back will be a huge boost as he has matured immensely. And as for a new signing, man city wouldn't just let super mario go easily so that rules him out but i have always liked giuseppe rossi... he's young, fast n also a very good finisher. but i think the defense is where we really need to focus on. As good as nesta is, he's been making some silly mistakes and a replacement is needed asap. i would suggest domenico criscito, he's young n can still learn more under nestas guidiance. i also wouldn't mind michel bastos joining the rossoneri and a midfield general like bastien schweinsteiger! Forza Milan!!!

Posted by Marco on 12/02/2010

Matteo what’s with all the hate for Seedorf? He has done well this season so far and is a FAR more reliable choice than Ronaldinho. Sure Dinho does a few nice flicks and 'nutmegs' when he plays, but Seedorf contributes much more to the team as a whole. Ronaldinho is not what he used to be. Id rather play Zlatan and Robinho all season long as they are giving everything for this team unlike R80. I say sell Dinho while we still can, and bring in Balotelli as soon as possible.

Posted by Matteo Bonetti on 12/02/2010

@Marco

There is no Slowdorf hate, just playful jabs. Let's be realistic. If reliable means putting in mediocre performances consistently, then yes he is more reliable than Ronaldinho. I'll take Ronnie's occasional brilliance (which dramatically changes the course of a game). Seedorf would be a great backup, mostly because of his professionalism and coaching mentality with the younger players.

But I agree, bringing in Balotelli would be unbelievable. An attack of Pato, Ibrahimovic, Robinho, Balotelli? In the wise words of Ray Hudson: "Simply ORGASMIC!"

Posted by D on 12/02/2010

Good writes as usual - the volume of comments reinforces that.
You know the answer from me already as I've been pretty consistent - Balotelli. While I don't think Inter would've shipped him across the street I was pushing for him in red/black last summer.
You also know how much I'd like to see Ranocchia at Milan - still kinda bummed we missed out on Bonucci.
One name I hadn't seen yet - prolly cause he's not getting much play this season is Morimoto. Would be affordable and wouldn't say boo about playing second fiddle to Ibra. Pato didn't say he thought Morimoto was the best young talent in Serie A because he was looking for friends on facebook.
I'm surprised by the hate shown to Ibra. I've been very pleased with his performance - he's been working hard, tracks back, and has not disapointed in the big games.
Also surprised by the amount of comments about not needing an additional striker. Does everyone truely think we can continue to play Ibra 90 min of every match? ...

Posted by D on 12/02/2010

... continued:
If Ibra goes down what are we left with? There isn't another proven striker on the roster? This is why Ibra ends up playing the whole game, of EVERY game. 'Dinho and Pato aren't true substitutions as they're better on the wings.
Honestly I wouldn't want to see another brazilian come in right now. Maybe after 'Dinho goes. Which is another one that's interesting in the comments. No denying Ronnie's accomplishments or the player he was ... but that's just it, he's not that player anymore. Still good .. but doesn't seem to fit within the make up of this side. Tired of seeing him give up on plays when he gets fouled and seeing him not track back (both things he was guilty of last year so don't point to Allegri as the reason). It's time to cut bait with that one.
Agree with the comments about Bale and Forlan not coming .. would be nice but don't see it. Also don't see Pazzini coming, or to be honest, succeeding at Milan.
All that said, happy holidays to all!

Posted by punditguy on 12/02/2010

@Matteo

What do you think about G.Rossi to Milan?

Every single year for the past 4 years he's been saying he wants to join Milan and it seems as tho those words have fallen to deaf ears. Falcao is a player would be great as well but i would really like to see an ITALIAN enforcement. Balloteli would be great but i think he would cost a lot. Rossi is worth around 20Mil and throw an additional 25Mil for Coentrao and thats fantastic!

Posted by Matteo Bonetti on 12/02/2010

You summed it up perfectly. Funny you mention Morimoto. Not only would he be a decent backup striker, but he generates so much jersey money + added bonuses because he is so popular in Japan. I've heard from a friend who knows that you will see plenty of Catania jerseys in Tokyo.

Right now we need three players: A backup striker, a world class/solid left back, and a young, talented central defender.

@Punditguy

Well Rossi admitted to being a Milan fan growing up (along with his father). He'd definitely be a great buy. He's a modest guy with his head on his shoulders. In the end it's going to come down to: Balotelli, or Rossi. With Rossi what you see is what you get. Balotelli has more upside than any Italian player in the world. I'm confident that in the Milan locker room which is full of classy "senators", Balotelli would get his act together.

Posted by baggi on 12/02/2010

i think pazzini would be the perfect striker for milan alongside zlatan ,also milan needs a young central defender salvatore boccheti is a good option for the future.

Posted by baggi on 12/02/2010

hey matteo ,ac milan needs a striker who is a goal poacher like inzaghi and who can score 20 to 25 goals a season , zlatan , pato and robinioh are all diferent from inzaghi ,thats why a pazzini ,a dzeko or aquafresca or matri would be ideal inside the 18 yard area , what u think

Posted by mohamed on 12/03/2010

i agree we need so sing few more players but for the time being i really think alegri should use line up like this
amelia
abate,nesta silve
ambrosini, boeteng, flamini
robinho,pato and ibra

if milan uses this, they will win both champions league, and seria a
subs will be
pirlo, sokritas for nesta and abrosini and the third one will depend on the situation

Posted by Nick Brago on 12/04/2010

Just play Ronaldinho he is one of the best passers in the world I don`t get why Allegri is so stubborn.

Posted by bayossky on 12/04/2010

pippo is the best of all time and now we have a future and very good striker.i think we need diego forlan who has more experience and can also coordinate the acm and cf.he has proved his worth at the world cup every match hd played.allegri can bring him in by january.i believe milan should be able to bring back the golden boy ricky kaka.all the same milan is winning the trophy.

Posted by JTex13 on 12/05/2010

in response to your question i say fernando llorente! i'm a big fan of athletic bilbao and the basque striker's technical ability, i think, would be a great fit for serie a. although i am a juve follower, llorente would be a good to see on any big italian team.

Posted by Soto on 12/05/2010

@MATTEO
WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE GAME AGAINST AJAX ?
Should Allegri give some playing time to the young players,.? if i was in hhis place i would change the whole team for this match.
AND what do you think who is the best .. YEPES OR Sokratis?

Posted by Pars on 12/07/2010

Why is everyone so surprised that Ronnie isn't playing? He is finished! He brings nothing to the team other than an occasional pass. Also, Pirlo is still, in my opinion, the best deep-lying play-maker in the world. We do need to get rid of Seedorf (why, oh why did we not get Van deer Vaart?). Also, if the news out there is true, we are scouting some really exciting youngsters in S. America. As for reinforcing in Jan, we definitely need a striker (perhaps Palosci? Or Adebayor?). In the summer, we need to bid farewell to Ambrosini, Ronnie, Bonera, Jankluvski, Oddo, Inzaghi, and maybe Gattuso. From the old guard, keep Pirlo and Nesta for the new generation! Milan just need a few tweaks, and give Allegri time: he has improved the team. His style is more realistic than Leo's. We may have played 'nicer' football last year, but with results, the beautiful game will ensue! FORZA MILAN!

Posted by Falodun Akinyemi on 12/07/2010

Something is still missing in milan,we need a young world class goalkeeper.Take it or leave it Milan cannot win Champions League.

Posted by Tony on 12/10/2010

Matteo,

It looks like Cassano is definitely headed out of Sampdoria on Monday. Do you think Milan would make a move for him and possibly use him as a trequartista instead of Seedorf? Also, given the injury of Silva is it more realistic now to think Milan will buy out the other half of Astori's contract soon?

Posted by hatz on 12/11/2010

Great commentary,
I think we need to invest in defenders and mid fielders. We have enough strikers! The biggest change I have noticed with our club is that we concede goals in every game now. There was a time not so long ago when teams would have to pull up trees just to score against us. Now with our present old players, we are susceptible to counter attacks and get caught out quite often. I love my club, Forza Milan, (+ I know he's an easy target but Silvio B is an excellent owner, he has his quirky moments but he is an owner that this club and its supporters should thank! anybody ever hear of the Glaziers or MR. 'I'll fire you if I feel like it' Ambrovich in England? now they are the kind of owners I fear having.) FORZA MILAN!!

Posted by KoolMILANFaN on 12/11/2010

Ive Realized that Ronaldinho only plays at his Best when he has Pato to Feed up front all the Time with Raised Through balls.....I Believe he can do this With Ibra also, but he only gets playing Time when subbed on For Ibra, so They are never on the Pitch at the Same time....It will Be interesting to see how it plays out on a full 90 Together if it ever happens....

Now that Thiago Silva is Out For who knows How Long? I think iTs Top Priority To Sign A defender This Coming January Window To Compete IN CHamps League and Stay In Top Flight in Serie A......We SHould 100% Sign DAVID LUIZ from BENFICA

And as for our Goalkeeper....Yea Amelia Played Alright Against Ajax but im still not Convinced with him when Abbiati is Injured....Milan Should SIgn Young MExican Star Kepper GUILLERMO OCHOA..Milan was interested but because he got no world cup playing time and MIlan lost INterest(Along With Giovanni DOs santos)... Now it Seems that Arsenal Or Fullham are on the verge of singing Ochoa in Jan

Posted by KoolMILANFaN on 12/11/2010

And WHat About Oguchi ONyewu??? WIll he ever Get a Start This Season? he was Very Good For the Usa National Team BEfore His KNee Injury....I would like to see him PLay For milan for a game or 2.....or at least subbed on?

Posted by RobStyles on 12/13/2010

@KoolMILANFan I agree that Gooch should get a look, hopefully in the Coppa Italia matches. It's a shame that you got injured last year as it really derailed his Milan career or what may have been.

Posted by Mike on 12/14/2010

I think the implementation of Ibra and Robinho with KPB in support has been unstoppable. KPB finally got a goal or two under his belt after turning in some good performances. He is always going to be the unobserved contributor. He wins balls, plays strong moving the ball forward, and ultimately is able to give it to whoever can finish if he can't pull it off himself. I think offensively Milan will be fine, even with injuries.

What scares me is all star defenders like Bonera, Yepes (Who shines on occasion), and Oddo. I can't imagine three people who I wouldn't want more than those three. Old, slow, and inconsistent all of them. They look lost in the back. With Nesta having a bit of an uncertain run the only thing holding it together is Thiago Silva. Thankfully this season Abate learned how to defend finally, as there was no other option. Defense and some of in midfield is in dire need of replacement. Offensively? More options than a swiss army knife.

Posted by L'Architetto Pirlo on 12/14/2010

It surprises me that a life-long Milan fan (the author of this blog) would have something negative to say about Andrea. He is an icon for club and country. The squad is not better without Pirlo in the line-up, just look at the most recent results in the league. The real key to this team is Ibra. Without Ibra the team loses possession because of his ability to hold-up play. He also is the only threat on the team for aerial crosses into the penalty box.
Milan need another tall, powerful striker to give Zlatan some rest. Keep rotating Flamini, Boateng, Gattuso and Ambrosini around Pirlo to make the tackles in front of the defense.
The striker I'm thinking of has been rumored in the past but I think Milan need to make a strong push - Edin Dzeko of Wolfsburg.

Posted by Pooch on 12/15/2010

@Pars I think you are being too hard with the older players, respecting and keeping the old players is may I say an AC Milan trademark. My greatest respect for the club comes from the fact that players like maldini, dida,costacurta, rui costa, baresi and many others got the chance to stay until a very advanced age. I don't know about you, but I have not forgotten who scored the 2 goals in the final against liverpool in 2007, or that gattuso has been for more than a decade in the club. I would say, sell seedorf bonera, jankulovski and oddo (specially oddo) and buy some good young players
Forwards: matri, paloschi, dimitry payet, perotti are good young and cheap options
Midfield: m'vila, nuri sahin, lass, arteta, ganso, krancjar
Defense: good defenders are expensive, but I would say andre luiz, van der wiel , fillip luiz, ranocchia, boschetti
I would also love to see the younger players to play matches like the one against ajax, we lost thiago in a match we didn't NEED to win
FORZA MILAN

Posted by Pooch on 12/15/2010

Oh and one or two remarks:
I would use more ronaldinho and pirlo instead of seedorf, and sokratis instead of bonera, at least he would gain experience, bonera usually makes mistakes and he has reached his maximum .
About onyewu, I think he is tactically below ac milan standards, he could play in england because he is very physical, but if you see how nesta and maldini play, it's not about physical force as much as anticipation, positioning and reading the opponents next move.
About Allegri's tactical issues, well I don't like his style as much as leonardo's who I think that with the team we have now, could have done far better, but what is done is done.

And Matteo, as usual, your article: A Masterpiece.
I would love if wrote more often though :)
FORZA MILAN

Posted by MilanManiac9 on 12/15/2010

My question is this: Given that we already have a truckload of strikers, shouldn't the Rossoneri be a bit more focused on the somewhat lacking back line? Yes, there are world-class players back there, or we wouldn't be unbeaten in 9 matches, but we need fullbacks. My recommendation, at least from a striker's and a goalkeeper's standpoint (of which I am both), is that Milan should go after guys like Sergio Ramos, Joe Cole, Martin DiMichaelis, or even Jay DeMerit. We need both a defender who can press forward effectively as well as an enforcer, so of those I mentioned, I most recommend Ramos and DeMerit. Until we pick up a consistent back line, we better hope we don't run into an attacking side like FC Bayern Munchen, or they'll embarrass Nesta and his line. All I hope for is that Milan is the best side possible, because I much prefer to cheer when my Rossoneri play well. Forza Milan, forza Rossoneri!

Posted by Vince on 12/16/2010

We need a fullback for each flank. Sell abate while he's hot product and buy two REAL fullbacks. We also need a Pirlo replacement, but someone who is more agressive. Boateng or flamini dont cut it for me.

Posted by Milan 1963 on 12/17/2010

I must say Allegri is doing a great job, unlike the previous two managers I feel more confident with his tactics and even if his Milan may not be as spectacular as Leo's one, he is for sure more efficient and can get the job done against any team in Italy. What I like is that he is taking strong decisions without being influenced by Berlusca or the senators. He managed to find the right balance between strength and fantasy, between solid defending and goal scoring opportunities. With Leo Milan always looked that they would have to score 4 or 5 goals to win games, with Ancellotti last season often after having been ahead they would be caught at the end. Today this Milan is strong and conscious of its capacity thanks to the 3 new signings and the revival of Flamini, Gattuso and Abate among others. Now that Cassano is almost on board I am a bit worried that this balance may be broken with yet another immobile fantasista but let;s trust SuperMax. Forza Milan.

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