AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri has expressed disappointment with his team`s defensive performance following a surprising 2-1 home defeat to newly-promoted Cremonese in their Serie A opener. The loss marked a disappointing start to the season for the defending champions.
“We cannot continue to concede such easy goals,” Allegri stated in his post-match interview. “Our ability to sense danger and respond with determination needs significant improvement.”
Despite Milan`s eight shots on target, Allegri emphasized that the difference in the match came down to the team`s lack of concentration in crucial defensive moments. He acknowledged that while it`s only the first match of the season, there is much work to be done to address these defensive shortcomings.
The coach highlighted specific defensive lapses, including allowing a free header in the box and failing to prevent a Cremonese player from reaching the byline unopposed. Allegri stressed the need for better positioning and awareness from his defenders.
In terms of tactics, Milan employed a flexible 3-5-2 formation that could shift to a 4-3-3. However, new signing Pervis Estupinan struggled to adapt defensively and was substituted at halftime.
Allegri also addressed concerns about striker Santiago Gimenez`s fitness, noting that the player`s late arrival to pre-season training had affected his performance. However, the coach maintained that the entire team must be better prepared to prevent conceding soft goals.
Looking ahead, Allegri emphasized the need to turn negatives into positives and prepare for tough matches. “If we only focus on playing attractive football, we risk drawing or losing against any opponent, as we did tonight,” he concluded.
Milan will aim to bounce back in their next fixture against Lecce, with Allegri calling for improved determination and defensive solidity from his squad.