If we rewind the tape about a year, after 30 Serie A matchdays we find an AC Milan side sitting ninth with 47 points and 35 goals conceded, one of the worst defenses in the top half of the table. Today, after the same number of games, the Rossoneri are second with a full 16 more points and 11 fewer goals conceded. The defensive record is crucial, as it highlights the extraordinary work done by Massimiliano Allegri, who has managed to make Milan’s back line balanced and compact in a way it hadn’t been for a long time, as relayed via Milan News today.
Upgrade and reliability
If we look at the squad, the defense is practically the same as last year’s. In fact, Milan lost Malick Thiaw and replaced him with Koni De Winter, a less experienced player with fewer high-level minutes under his belt. Allegri’s impact can also be measured here, he has managed to bring out the best in the players available to him. The individual who has improved the most is undoubtedly Strahinja Pavlović: Allegri’s staff have refined his tactical discipline and made him less raw, even allowing him to become an extra weapon in attack. It’s no coincidence that he already has four league goals. Alongside him, despite a recent injury, Matteo Gabbia has proven to be the same reliable presence he was last season, a solid, organized player who is now recognized as a leader in the dressing room. This year has also seen a resurgence from Fikayo Tomori, whose recent national team call-up confirms his strong form, as well as steady growth from De Winter, who has improved game after game. Completing the department is the very young David Odogu, still too inexperienced to play regularly.
Strengthening in the transfer market:
Despite the good performances of this defensive unit, and with full respect for all the players involved, it will be necessary to strengthen the back line in the summer with a major signing. First, because (barring a collapse) some form of European competition will return to Milanello, meaning a much more crowded schedule, too demanding for just five defenders. Secondly, because the team must keep improving, and adding at least one high-level player can only be beneficial, as well as a source of motivation for the rest of the unit. The club will need to provide Allegri with all the tools required to take another step forward, also trusting his judgment, which has often proven right, the case of Adrien Rabiot is a clear example. In recent weeks, the hottest name linked with the role has been Mario Gila. The Spanish defender, born in 2000, was brought to SS Lazio by Igli Tare, who knows him well. He is now a key figure in Lazio’s defense and an experienced profile in Italian football. This would eliminate the usual adaptation concerns, and his contract runs until 2027. Regardless of whether it will be Gila or someone else, the objective is clear: give “Max” all the tools he needs to bring AC Milan back to greatness.
