How great it is to see this version of Ruben Loftus-Cheek again. Strong, aggressive, powerful with the ball at his feet. All qualities that have always been part of his wide repertoire, back when he was still very young at Chelsea, he was already labeled as one of the most exciting prospects of the Blues’ Academy.
At Milan, he played a key role in his first season under Stefano Pioli in 2023/24 (10 goals across all competitions), which so far remains his best campaign in what has just become his third year in red and black. Against Bari, even though it was just a mid-August Coppa Italia match, we were able to enjoy plenty of good things from the Englishman, as pointed out by Milan News.
Physical strength: when he’s fit, he’s unstoppable
Explosive bursts like a top player, physically a bulldozer (or a tank, take your pick). This version of Loftus, when he’s at his best, is a real joy to watch. The Englishman combines imposing physique with technical quality, with perhaps his only real weakness being long-range shooting. In open space, he is powerful, eye-catching, and knows how to “burst through” when needed. Under Allegri’s management, Milan’s number eight truly seems to have gained greater awareness and confidence, also helped by a role on the pitch that brings out his strengths. Loftus is not a second striker, false nine, or traditional playmaker, but a magnificent thoroughbred who, if given the conditions to run, surge forward, and dominate physically, can become an almost complete midfielder.
This season could give him both confidence and goals, maybe even sending a message to England manager Thomas Tuchel. On paper, it’s almost an impossible goal, considering his last call-up dates back to 2018. But still, "come on, Rubes".
