Milan’s 2016 Memories
Milan ended 2016 with a bang when they were crowned
the SuperCoppa Italiana champions in Doha. It was a feat that arrived two days
before Christmas, and it was the first time since Leonardo’s reign a Rossoneri
coach was able to have his Panettone and eat it too without any fear of what
the New Year may bring.
Speaking after the triumph, head coach
Vincenzo Montella declared: "Winning a trophy is something memorable, and
I think it's my best moment as a coach.”
With his job secured and a 29th
title, possibly the last, during Silvio Berlusconi’s ownership of the club, the
victory was not only l’Aeroplanino’s first piece of silverware as a coach, but
it ended a five-year trophyless barren run at the club (the last title coming
in the shape of the 2010/11 Scudetto). In addition, it was further proof that
progress is underway at Milanello.
For five years the club has proven to be a
shadow of their former status as “European Giants”… Fortunately, though, under
Montella, the second half of 2016 brought about more highs than lows. In
addition, the first six months of the year quietly saw the groundwork of the
Ital-Milan project being paved by Sinisa Mihajlovic.
Here’s a look at the standout memories of
2016.
Winning The Derby Della Madonnina
A derby win always seems to carry more
significance than the standard three points that are awarded with a victory,
and that was the case when “Miha’s” men recorded an impressive 3-0 result
against Inter on 31 January. Not only were derby rights claimed, the win was
also one of Milan’s best performances in a long time, and one that saw the true
Diavoli rise from the ashes.
The Rise Of The Youngsters & Ital-Milan
While Gianluigi Donnarumma had already
established himself a regular in goal In December 2015 already, this year has
seen the rise of youngsters in the Milan set-up. Not only has the 17-year-old
“Gigio” been a mainstay for the club for over a year already, he is at the base
of Milan’s spine which has been built around players under the age of 25.
Goal: Donnarumma (17); Defence: Romagnoli (21), De Sciglio
(24), Calabria (20); Midfield:
Locatelli (18), Pasalic (21); Attack:
Niang (22), Suso (23)
In addition, Montella has opted to put his
trust in locally bred talent, and in the 1-0 league win over Juventus; eight
Italians were on the field. Ital-Milan has been predominant in every line-up
this season.
Reaching The Coppa Italia Final
Once again, Mihajlovic laid the foundation
and hard work to qualify for the final, however, his controversial dismissal
from the Milan bench meant former Primavera coach Cristian Brocchi had to step in.
The 40-year-old was hired on an interim basis, and while he may have lost the
final in what would eventually be his last game in charge for the club, his
side put out a worthy battle on the day. The real encouraging factor here was
the fact Milan had qualified for their first Coppa Italia final in 13 years.
Donnarumma & Romagnoli Declared Unsellable
In what could possibly be considered one of
Berlusconi’s most influential and vital decisions ahead of the 2016/17 Serie A
campaign, the Rossoneri president declared both Donnarumma and Alessio
Romagnoli unsellable. “I wouldn’t sell Donnarumma for €80m, which is the amount
he’s worth. For us, he’s unsellable,” he told Telelombardia. This was,
undoubtedly, one of the best moves of the transfer window, as the two have
shown signs of the great Nelson Dida – Alessandro Nesta partnership.
The Selling Of The Club
While the actual sale of the club is yet to
take place, and while the constant delays haven’t conveyed much confidence
amongst the fans, the possible sale of Milan is one of the biggest highlights
away from the field. For 30 years Berlusconi has owned the club, and when he
eventually abdicates form his throne, it will certainly be a step into the
right direction for the San Siro outfit.
Maldini Rejects A Club Return
This memory isn’t one many Milanisti would
like to recall, but in a passionate and well-balanced letter on his Facebook
page, Paolo Maldini confirmed he would not be returning to the club. The Rossoneri
legend admitted that he wanted a more assertive and distinct role at Casa
Milan, and that he wasn’t prepared to join a team undergoing massive changes.
As they say… the truth hurts.
Beating Juventus… Twice! And Winning The SuperCoppa
A victory over archrivals Juventus is just as
sweet as claiming bragging rights in a Milan derby. After all, it isn’t
everyday a team gets to defeat Italy’s, and one of Europe’s, best side. This
year, Montella managed to achieve that feat twice: the first in a league match
where Manuel Locatelli scored a stunner of a goal, while the second came via a
penalty shootout in the SuperCoppa final. Not only were they simple wins; but
the result had a deeper etched meaning to it – one that showed how the team has
progressed in terms of determination, concentration, ability, tactics, and composure.
Of course, adding the first piece of silverware in five years the sweetest
cherry on top!
Like every year, each team experiences highs
and lows. Milan still has a long way to go in terms of returning to their
former glory, but, overall, there has been an overarching improvement and
things have changed for the better. From Mihajlovic putting his trust in
certain players, to Brocchi’s professionalism and Montella’s man management,
each coach has played a significant role in the Milan’s achievements in 2016.
Comments