The venerable Massimiliano Allegri is set to orchestrate his Serie A comeback on the hallowed grounds of San Siro, ushering in a new chapter for AC Milan. After a curious, off-pitch debut in the Coppa Italia, the stage is now truly set for his return to the touchline as the Rossoneri face Cremonese. This moment marks not just a coach`s return, but a strategic recalibration for a club with Champions League aspirations.
The Unwavering Quest for Equilibrium
At the core of Allegri`s renewed philosophy for AC Milan is a steadfast commitment to `equilibrium.` He envisions a team that operates with unwavering consistency, a “cruising speed” that avoids the unpredictable highs and lows that can derail a season. It`s a pragmatic approach, emphasizing internal balance as the bedrock for sustained performance. For Allegri, a man whose tactical pragmatism is as legendary as his post-match coffee, this equilibrium isn`t merely a buzzword; it`s the operational directive.
“In the league, we must maintain a cruising speed, always traveling at the same pace, without up and down. That`s why balance must reign within us. The goal is to play in the Champions League next year. It requires work, responsibility, and attention to detail.”
This statement, delivered with a palpable sense of renewed vigor and a hint of a smile, underscores the weight of expectation. Without the distractions of European competition this season, the domestic league becomes AC Milan`s sole, laser-focused objective: secure a return to Europe`s elite tournament. Anything less would be a misstep.
A Transformed Squad and Tactical Nuances
The summer transfer window has seen a significant overhaul for the Rossoneri, a “more or less total revolution” as Allegri describes it. He expresses genuine satisfaction with the club`s diligent work, both in player acquisitions and departures, highlighting a shared vision for AC Milan`s future. His approval isn`t just for technical prowess, but crucially, for the “moral” fabric of the new squad—a group that “wants to become a team.”
Midfield Dynamics and Defensive Flexibility
Allegri delved into specific areas, offering intriguing insights:
- Luka Modric: The Ageless Maestro – The Croatian legend, despite approaching 40, is still “marvelous when he touches the ball.” Allegri acknowledges the need to manage his physicality throughout the season but stresses Modric`s profound value, both on and off the pitch. His inclusion points to a desire for experience and technical finesse at the heart of the team.
- Loftus-Cheek and Fofana: Goal-Scoring Imperative – A bold challenge has been laid down for midfielders Loftus-Cheek and Fofana: “They must convince themselves that they can, by the end of the season, find themselves with 15 goals between them.” This objective suggests a more offensive role and higher expectations for their contribution in the final third.
- Defensive Versatility – Concerns over the number of central defenders (four) were swiftly dismissed. Allegri noted the multi-functional capabilities of players like De Winter and Tomori, who can also cover the right flank, alongside Santiago Gimenez and Athekame. This flexibility is key to his system, enabling shifts between formations without compromising defensive solidity.
Gimenez and the Unspoken Striker
Allegri openly shared his contentment with Santiago Gimenez`s current form and adaptation, expressing hope that he can sustain his physical output for the entire match. However, when pressed on the imminent arrival of Victor Boniface for medicals, Allegri, with a characteristic poker face, gracefully “glissed,” stating his policy against discussing unregistered players “out of respect for the parties involved.” A subtle confirmation, perhaps, for those reading between the lines.
Beyond the Individual: The Club Reigns Supreme
In a refreshing display of perspective, Allegri reiterated a philosophy often lost in the modern game`s focus on individual stars: “In big clubs, it`s not the coach and players that matter, but the club. The club`s history counts, and it must be respected.” He emphasized that being part of such an institution demands a deep sense of responsibility and meticulous work to avoid errors. AC Milan, he asserted, stands “above everyone.” This isn`t false modesty; it`s a foundational belief in the collective ethos that he aims to embed.
Scudetto Prospects and Ibrahimović`s Evolving Role
While the Champions League remains the immediate target, Allegri offered a fleeting nod to the Scudetto race. He places AC Milan firmly within the “lot of teams that will fight for the top four places,” subtly positioning them as contenders rather than outright favorites. It’s a pragmatic assessment, aligning with his call for consistent performance over spectacular, but sporadic, bursts of brilliance.
Finally, a brief mention of Zlatan Ibrahimović, now in a different role within the club: “I remained a coach, he changed professions. He is very intelligent, he is trying to understand, he is a point of reference for the players, and this must be an added value.” Ibrahimović`s continued presence, albeit in a non-playing capacity, adds another layer of gravitas and mentorship to Allegri`s new-look AC Milan.
As Massimiliano Allegri steps back onto the San Siro touchline, the football world watches with keen interest. His message is clear: success for AC Milan this season will be built on balance, collective responsibility, meticulous detail, and a reverence for the club`s storied past. The quest for equilibrium has begun.
Murray Blackwood