Let’s face it, not everyone can perform on the big stage.
And although Milan’s cast this year includes fewer stars, our schedule still
demands important performances from both the stars and the supporting cast. So
I thought I would find out which of our new players will live up to his
expectations, and also which players might not. Take the polls and tell us what you think!
Here are our newest cast members:
Riccardo Montolivo:
Thought by many to be last year’s Mr. X, he has often been called a “poor man’s
Pirlo.” His inconsistent performances at Fiorentina are worrisome, but his
performances with the national team at Euros this year raise the expectations
to a whole new level.
Bakaye Traoré:
One of the lesser known new players, he has no Serie A experience whatsoever. A
defensive midfielder who has probably had a conversation with Ambrosini about
who plays in front of the defense, he has said he wants to be a versatile
midfielder. But will he sink or swim in a new league?
Kevin Constant:
Moving from Ligue 1 to Chievo just 2 years ago, his year with the Flying
Donkeys was quite impressive. However his time at Genoa last year was much less
so. Were his talents simply misused last season? Or will Milan bring out the
best in him? This Muntari replacement loan deal could go either way.
Francesco Acerbi:
He’s a Milanista, but will the pressure of performing at his dream club make
him choke? With most of his career spent in Serie B, it’s hard to know what to
expect from him on the big stage. Although his increasing confidence over the
course of the friendlies gives one the impression he’ll put in a star
performance.
Gabriel: The very
young Brazilian keeper doesn’t have a lot to prove, given that he’ll be on the
bench behind two of the most capable keepers in the league. But he was given a
chance to audition for the big stage at the Olympics with Brazil, and his
performances were both fabulous and frightening. So if he plays at Milan, what
will we see?
Cristian Zapata: With
his time at Udinese filled with stellar performances, he only has this past
season at Villareal, played out of position, to make us question whether or not
he will be able to dazzle on the big stage. Coming “home” to Serie A and being
surrounded by mostly supporting cast members in the defense, he could really shine.
This post inspired by the music of
Les Miserables
Our next match is the Trofeo Berlusconi
Milan vs. Juventus
Sunday, August 19 • 20:45 CEST (2:45pm EDT)
Stadio San Siro, Milano
Performance Anxiety
Reviewed by Elaine
on
4:55 AM
Rating:
Reviewed by Elaine
on
4:55 AM
Rating:
