AC Milan had to work hard for our 2-0 win over Venezia on Wednesday night, but there was certainly a lot to be positive about after picking up all three points.
The Rossoneri eventually sealed the victory through goals from Brahim Diaz and Theo Hernandez, ensuring that we continue to set the pace at the top of the Serie A table for the time being.
READ MORE: Milan player ratings vs Venezia: Theo, Saelemaekers and Brahim Diaz decisive
Stefano Pioli opted to change things in midweek as he looks to keep his squad fresh and avoid further injury woes, and so with context, it makes this win even more important and impressive against a side battling to avoid being dragged into a relegation dogfight this season.
Another clean sheet for Maignan
That’s now three clean sheets in five league games for our summer signing and just two goals conceded in five, as Mike Maignan has come in and immediately cemented his place in the side and showcased his importance through his quality on the pitch.
Albeit this wasn’t one of his busier night’s work, he still did his job and organised the backline to give us a solid foundation on which to go out and win the game, without risking anything at the back and throwing away points.
Those were big shoes he had to fill left behind by his predecessor, but he’s doing a fine job thus far.
Squad depth becomes crucial
With the number of injuries we currently have coupled with the need to avoid burning key individuals out so early in the season, the depth in the squad is coming to the fore.
Milan did well to add more options in each position over the summer, and with our hectic schedule currently, that is showing as we made several changes and still won.
It’s hoped that those stepping in can step up moving forward as we need a bit more quality from all the players, but it’s a positive sign that Pioli can change things and still get the desired result.
Brahim Diaz continues evolution
That’s now three goals and an assist in six games across all competitions so far this season, and that is a crucial level of influence in the final third for us.
We’ve been dogged by individuals who have been far too inconsistent in the past and haven’t been able to make a telling contribution in front of goal in such an important creative role as our No.10.
Diaz still has a long way to go and must continue to develop and improve his game, but his knack for scoring key goals is certainly a major positive at this stage and it’s hoped it continues.
Critical Milan get focal point up top back
For all the positives, Milan are absolutely still missing Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Olivier Giroud up front.
We’ve managed to get results without them, but going back to the 4-1 win over Cagliari or the 2-0 victory against Lazio, the level of our play is much better when we have that focal point to lead the attack and to play around.
Milan are undoubtedly a more convincing outfit with that system and style of play, and while huge credit must go to Pioli and the players available to him for continuing to find ways to win games or be competitive at least, it can only get us so far and so getting Ibrahimovic or Giroud, or both, back will be critical in the coming weeks.