Milan has the technical potential to overturn the 1-0 defeat from the first leg against Feyenoord and qualify for the Champions League round of 16.
On paper, that's the case, and it was also true in Rotterdam, but then something different happened on the field. Feyenoord brought more fighting spirit, won both the offensive and defensive duels, had a better attitude than Milan, and came away with the victory. The difference is entirely here. And so, the regrets increase for a team that has the qualities to do well but often fails to put them into practice. It's time to do things seriously, to step onto the field with the right mentality, and to make up for the poor performance in the Netherlands. It all depends on the Rossoneri. The support of the fans will also be crucial; the atmosphere at "De Kuip" in Rotterdam was overwhelming, as relayed by Antonio Vitiello for Milannews.it.
One of the negative protagonists in last week’s match was Mike Maignan, with a mistake that cost Milan dearly. But the club has so much faith in the French goalkeeper that they will soon announce his contract renewal. Everything is done, until 2029, with a salary increase to 5 million euros net. It will be announced in March. Similarly, Reijnders' extension will be made official, with an important adjustment to his terms. As for Pulisic, there are still some details to work out, while the situation with Theo Hernandez is at a standstill.
Unfortunately for Milan, tonight against Feyenoord, they won’t be able to field Alex Jimenez (who is not in the UEFA list).
The 19-year-old Spaniard has developed so much that the club is reconsidering the agreement with Real Madrid. There is a buy-back clause for the Blancos, which would allow them to bring Jimenez back for 9 million euros in the summer of 2025, or for 12 million euros in the summer of 2026. Milan will soon start negotiations with Real to modify the clauses. They absolutely want to keep him and will try. A talent like Jimenez is definitely one to keep at home.
Returning to the VAR case in Empoli - Milan, the mistake was so grave that it led the Rossoneri club to publicly protest with Ibrahimovic, to ensure respect for the club, but it also opened a national debate.
The president of Serie A took the situation of Tomori’s second yellow card to denounce a bug in the VAR protocol. There is talk of modifying some rules regarding technology intervention, and the idea of a VAR on call is gaining ground. Any path taken to improve the rules of the game is welcomed.
