Bittersweet break [Newsletter]
The international break is underway and given the amount of games played in recent weeks, it’s nice to get some rest as a fan. The drama against Genoa probably drained the energy from all of us and it’s certainly good that the Juventus clash isn’t just three days away. But there’s still some concern (rightfully so) about the break.
Just a few years ago, the international break was much more beneficial for Milan. Not as many of their players were called up and the few that were, didn’t always get that much playing time. The same cannot be said today, with around 10 of the 13 players called up expected to play a decent amount.
Therefore, while the break is a good opportunity to recharge the batteries for the fans and the players at Milanello, there is some concern. We can only hope that those out on international duty will avoid serious injuries. Noah Okafor has already been forced to leave the Switzerland camp, but only due to ‘a minor head injury’ and hopefully it’s more of a precaution.
Milan will take on the likes of Juventus, Napoli and also Paris Saint-Germain twice (the first probable XIs are in). Furthermore, Theo Hernandez and Mike Maignan will miss the clash against the Bianconeri due to suspension, meaning any further absences would really put Stefano Pioli in a tough position.
Those not called up have been enjoying some much-needed days off and will be back at the training ground on Thursday morning. There’s really no reason for them to be training these days anyway, unless we are talking about injury recovery, and some time off will do them much better both physically and mentally.
Since there’s not much else to talk about (don't worry, next week’s newsletter will be longer), let’s take a look at the latest news from the week that has been. Jonathan David appears to be the No.1 target for the attack, having been linked with the club for a long time and the reports are coming thick and fast.
News bulletin
➤ Milan’s Primavera side got back to winning ways in the league, coming back from behind against Atalanta to win 3-1. Victor Eletu and Kevin Zeroli were the protagonists for Ignazio Abate’s side, with the former getting a 1+1 and the latter bagging a lovely brace. Just like the first team, they are now in first place two points ahead of Inter.
➤ Milan Women lost the big clash against league rivals Juventus after conceding the winner in the 87th minute. The game was quite balanced overall but the Bianconere certainly improved in the last 20 minutes, looking like the better team after questionable subs from the Rossonere.
➤ Jonathan David is the No.1 target for the attack as Milan intend to bring in a striker next summer, as reported by Daniele Longo and others. Olivier Giroud is expected to remain at the club, signing a one-year renewal, but he will not be the starting striker next season.
➤ Gerry Cardinale sent a message to the Milan team and Stefano Pioli after the win against Giroud, congratulating the manager on his four-year anniversary at the club. The club owner also spoke to Gazzetta dello Sport, praising the character of the team as ‘this is what champions ultimately are made of’.
➤ There has been a lot of controversy surrounding Christian Pulisic’s winner against Genoa, due to a possible handball by the American. However, the chief referee designator Gianluca Rocchi explained that VAR couldn’t intervene as the images didn’t provide any certainty.
➤ Milan are well aware that 2-3 departments need reinforcing and work is already underway ahead of the January and summer transfer windows. A striker is one of the priorities and will arrive in the summer.
➤ The stadium project in San Donato is still at the very beginning but Milan are already thinking about the commercial aspects. For the naming rights, the Rossoneri would like to partner up with their main sponsor Emirates.
In case you missed it
Make sure to check out the latest podcast episode, and our latest bonus podcast in which the lads discuss Yacine Adli’s rise. We have also published quite a few bonus articles lately, including the first edition of Meeting the Milan media. Are you interested in a paid subscription? Read all about it here.