Milan's tactical struggles emerge despite victory over Atalanta
AC Milan managed to secure a thrilling 3-2 victory over Atalanta on Sunday evening, preserving their unbeaten streak in the 2026-27 Serie A season. However, this win has been overshadowed by growing concerns regarding the tactical approach of their recently appointed head coach, Ruben Amorim.
The match at San Siro saw Milan take a commanding lead, with goals from Goncalo Ramos, Adrien Rabiot, and Mario Gila putting them 3-0 up within the first hour. Despite this strong start, the game took a tense turn when Atalanta began to claw back into contention, scoring two late goals through Gianluca Gaetano and Nikola Krstovic. Milan's goalkeeper, Mike Maignan, was forced into action, making crucial saves to secure the win and avoid what would have been a disappointing collapse.
Post-match analysis from La Gazzetta dello Sport has highlighted a significant issue with Milan's current tactical setup under Amorim. While the report acknowledges that the team is 'on the right track,' it raises concerns about the physical demands placed on players by Amorim's system. This has led to questions about the team's ability to maintain their performance levels throughout the full 90 minutes, particularly as they have shown signs of fatigue in the latter stages of matches.
Despite these concerns, there were positive aspects to Milan's performance. The ability to rotate the squad effectively, making seven changes from their previous Europa League match against RB Salzburg, and still managing to score three goals against a competitive Atalanta side is commendable. This flexibility in squad management is a testament to Amorim's tactical acumen, as it demonstrates that he can adapt his lineup while still achieving results.
Milan's evolving attacking identity under pressure
The praise for Milan's attacking play is also noteworthy. The team has begun to develop a clearer identity under Amorim, creating more chances and displaying a more cohesive attacking strategy. However, the lingering question remains: can they sustain this level of performance without succumbing to the physical toll of Amorim's demanding style?
The Final Whistle
As the season progresses, it will be crucial for Amorim to find a balance between maintaining intensity and ensuring that his players can perform consistently. The risk of burnout is real, especially in a league as competitive as Serie A, where every match can be a battle. If Milan hopes to challenge for the title, addressing these tactical issues will be essential. The team's ability to adapt and respond to the challenges posed by their opponents will ultimately determine their success this season.
In conclusion, while AC Milan's victory over Atalanta is a positive result, the underlying tactical issues cannot be ignored. Amorim's approach demands a high level of physical fitness and mental resilience from his players, and it remains to be seen whether they can meet these demands over the course of a long season. As they continue to navigate the challenges of Serie A, finding the right balance will be key to their ambitions.
