AC Milan secured a 2-0 win over Bologna as we got our Serie A campaign off to a positive start, and there was plenty to assess following the performance.
Goals from Olivier Giroud and Christian Pulisic sealed the victory on Monday night, as after significant activity over the summer in the transfer window, Stefano Pioli began the process of integrating his new faces in competitive action.
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Attention will now quickly shift to Torino on Saturday as we look to build and improve on this display, but after much anticipation over how the new-look Milan would fare, there were undoubtedly some positive signs and also clear areas in which we’ll have to be better moving forward.
Pioli has exciting attacking options, but balance must be found
The focus this summer has been on adding more quality to our attack and changing the style and make-up of the side with an injection of energy, physicality and technical ability.
That in turn led to some brilliant football being played in the final third in the early stages as we took a 2-0 lead, and so that was certainly a major positive given the struggles we had last year.
However, there was a lack of balance in the side as we looked vulnerable defensively at times and lacked authority in midfield particularly, and so that needs to be rectified quickly as against sides with more quality up front, we could be punished.
Pulisic shines on debut
What an introduction for the USA international as he was influential in the build-up to our opening goal before he struck a stunning effort into the back of the net to double our lead.
His energy, hard work and quality in dangerous areas adds a new dynamic to our attack down the right side, and it’s hoped that he can stay healthy and find consistency.
With his versatility, he will be an important option for Pioli this season, and this was a brilliant way to open his account and get started in a Milan shirt.
Normal service resumed for Giroud
Despite turning 36, Giroud continues to play an influential role for us in leading the line, and he showcased his quality once again to help lead us to a win.
The Frenchman’s instincts for scoring broke the deadlock, but it was his link-up play and impact up top that impressed throughout as he will be fundamental in stringing things together.
Pioli will have to manage his workload sensibly this season and so he’ll be rotated, but he’s started the new season well and that’s important for us with his experience and leadership.
Reijnders already looks a top signing
Tijjani Reijnders looks a class act, and still only 25 years of age, it’s hoped that he is set for key period in his career with us where he’ll mature and develop into a top-level midfielder.
Whether it’s his technical ability in possession as he looks composed and has the vision to play key passes to break the lines, or his work ethic and ability to go box-to-box and impact both phases, he will be a vital figure for us this season.
The Dutchman registered his first assist in a Milan shirt with his cut back for Giroud, and so he’ll hopefully continue to be decisive in the coming weeks and months while impressing with his overall influence.
Ideal start for Milan to build early confidence
With so much business being done over the summer, both in terms of incomings and outgoings, it’s likely to take some time before Milan hit top form as we build chemistry and understanding on the pitch.
Integrating so many new faces into the Milan XI won’t be as easy as it would seem for Pioli, as although they add quality and make us a better side, a balance needs to be found and awareness developed to control games better as a collective.
In turn, it’s crucial we pick up wins to start the season to build confidence and belief in what we’re doing and for the squad to gel in a positive environment, and so from that perspective although there are still important improvements needed, it was a great way to start for the Rossoneri.
