A final push to reach the Champions League, ninety minutes of tension with an apprehensive crowd.
AC Milan plays its all against Cagliari on Sunday evening at San Siro in front of 70,000 spectators. Maximum concentration will be needed, because that match will determine the future of the club and the team. Thus, Massimiliano Allegri is trying to replicate—at least internally—last week's conditions. A retreat starting Friday isn't punitive, but rather a way to recreate a bubble of isolation to maintain focus, free from the rumors, gossip, and indiscretions that speak of a disunited club with an uncertain future. Tare's position seems to be the most uncertain, probably because it's easier to say goodbye to the latest director to join the Rossoneri by handing over all the responsibility. In reality, it seems the Rossoneri lack a strong, competent man who has the final say but is also capable of listening to all stakeholders, not just the owners.
Starting Monday, we'll see how the new AC Milan will be designed, discussions will begin, and Gerry Cardinale will make decisions about the management. The Champions League is the deciding factor between an acceptable season and failure. But the club's intentions and availability for the upcoming transfer window could also influence certain decisions, especially that of Allegri. This is a delicate moment. Cardinale's likely presence at San Siro, after being at the Ferraris last Sunday, is a clear sign in this direction. The feeling, however, is that a change of pace is needed. The team must be reassessed; some players now appear to be at the end of their tether. Pulisic's intentions must be understood, a decision must be made about what to do with Leao, who has been more of a burden than a blessing in AC Milan's final years, and a striker must be sought because Gimenez is struggling enormously to regain his fitness. And whether or not they play in the Champions League will also determine the decisions of Luka Modric, who will be on the pitch wearing a mask for the final match of the season on Sunday, and fans hope it isn't a last dance. Milan faces a team that has nothing left to ask of this season. Certain of survival, but lacking European ambitions, they will honor the match but will likely lack any particular momentum.
Roma will be playing in Verona, while Como will face Cremonese, who will be looking to stay up at the last minute, and Juve will be going all out in the derby. In short, the conditions are ideal for the Rossoneri. Allegri knows this, but nothing can be left to chance. Leao, Estupinan, and Saelemaekers, who were suspended against Genoa, will also be available against Cagliari. Nkunku will certainly start in attack, while Allegri will have to decide who to partner him. The French striker is keeping the Rossoneri's hopes afloat. One of the players who has most disappointed this season is making amends in the final minutes and hopes to stay with the Rossoneri. It's hard to say; his permanence will be part of the evaluation process in June. But if he performs as he did at Marassi on Sunday, perhaps he'll deserve the accolade.
(Unioneonline)
