Kalulu-mania takes over as Milan seize pole in Scudetto race
AC Milan are flying high after two consecutive wins and so is a certain Pierre Kalulu, who has been a key player for the Rossoneri lately. In this week’s edition, we take a look at the youngster’s impressive displays, a ‘Kalulu-esque’ target and the Scudetto race.
Kalulu mania…
After two good performances against Inter and Napoli, the youngster once again showcased his growth in the game against Empoli. Not only did he score the winner with a great left-footed strike, but he was also very important for Milan in defending the lead.
In the last three games, Kalulu has received a rating of 6.5, 7.5 and 7.5 respectively. That gives him an average of almost 7.2 which is very impressive indeed. The Kalulu-mania that has been making the rounds in the last few days is certainly justified and hopefully, he can continue like this. Alessio Romagnoli’s injury in the derby, therefore, could end up being a sliding doors moment for the Scudetto.
Considering that the Rossoneri paid just €450k for his services (compensation fee), there is no doubt that it was a great deal for them. And in many ways, it was also a good solution for Kalulu, who has been able to grow at his own pace in a big-club environment.
Another operation eyed…
It’s not exactly a surprise that, amidst the success of Kalulu, newspapers have decided to take stock of Milan’s plans in the free market. One of the players that have been linked with the Rossoneri is Mamadou Coulibaly of Monaco, whose contract with the club will expire in the summer.
As per Gazzetta Dello Sport, Milan have accelerated talks over the 17-year-old and given his age, they would only have to pay a compensation fee to Monaco. The deal would be very Kalulu-esque, with the difference that Coulibaly plays as a midfielder and not a defender.
Scudetto race in Milan’s hands...
Thanks to their win against Empoli, and Inter’s draw against Torino, the Rossoneri have the Scudetto race in their hands with just nine games left of the season. They have H2H advantage over Inter but not against Napoli, meaning goal difference would decide if they were to finish with the same amount of points.
Looking at the schedule, as pictured below, it’s safe to say that Milan have a good opportunity to continue their good run of form. Atalanta and Lazio are the ’toughest’ games they have left, while Inter have Juventus and Roma. Napoli, meanwhile, still have to face Atalanta and Roma.
It will most likely come down to the wire but this is the best chance Milan have had Scudetto-wise since the 2011/12 season, that’s for sure. We can only hope that things will go the Rossoneri’s way for the season finale.