An Italian core to rebuild from. In recent years, Milan have had a shortage of Italian internationals in the squad, but since last season something seems to have changed. Two of the starting eleven were Italians, Matteo Gabbia and Davide Bartesaghi, as well as a regular starter/rotational first-team player, Samuele Ricci. New additions will soon join them.
Gabbia, Bartesaghi and Ricci: the first Italian core
The 1999-born defender is one of the last symbols of the Milan spirit at Milanello, as highlighted by today's edition of Tuttosport. He is a captain without the armband, recognised as such by his teammates, and he will continue to be so next season. The left-sided player has earned a starting role, displacing Pervis Estupiñán. From October to February he delivered strong performances, before experiencing a natural dip in form: he was born in 2005 and it was his first season at senior level. For the former Torino midfielder, carving out playing time proved more difficult, but his dedication has never been lacking, as relayed via Milan Press.
The new generation coming through: Zeroli, Comotto and Camarda
Three Italian players will return from loan spells and could form the backbone capable of giving fresh life to the Milan identity. They are Kevin Zeroli, coming off a season split between Monza and Juve Stabia; Christian Comotto, who played a leading role for Spezia before their relegation; and Francesco Camarda, who gained his first Serie A experience with Lecce. One player born in 2005 and two born in 2008, to whom another 2005-born player, Lorenzo Torriani, currently the third-choice goalkeeper, should also be added. The Italian core is beginning to take shape.
