Di Canio: ‘Milan can’t rely only on Leao, Rabiot’s absence is a huge problem’ | OneFootball

Paolo Di Canio believes Milan’s recent inconsistency in Serie A has exposed how much the team depends on balance, discipline and the contributions of key players like Adrien Rabiot.

Speaking on Sky Sport 24’s Club, the former striker said the Rossoneri have lost the collective edge that made them so strong earlier in the campaign.

“The absences are decisive,” Di Canio said, with quotes via MilanNews.

 ITALY – SEPTEMBER 23: Adrien Rabiot applauds the fans following the final whistle of the Coppa Italia Frecciarossa Round of 16 match  at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on September 23, 2025 in Italy. (Photo by Jonathan Moscrop/Getty Images)

“When Manchester City got their offensive quality back, they defended better. From the Cremonese match onwards, Milan improved – eleven players running, pressing, keeping balance and discipline. They attacked as a team and conceded zero goals.”

Di Canio questions Milan output without Rabiot

He pointed out that the Rossoneri’s performances have suffered recently: “In the last five games, Milan scored eight and conceded six. If you just wait for Leao to make a run, he gives no reference point and sometimes even walks. Without Rabiot’s help, where do the goals come from?”

For Di Canio, the issue is structural rather than individual: Milan’s strength earlier in the season came from its collective work ethic, and without that balance the team becomes predictable.

ITALY – OCTOBER 24: Rafael Leao of AC Milan celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Serie A match at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on October 24, 2025 in Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

“Leao must always play – he’s their most talented player,” he added, “but without Rabiot on that side, it’s a huge problem.”

The analysis reflects a broader concern about the club’s tactical evolution under Allegri, with Di Canio suggesting that the Rossoneri’s struggles stem not from quality but from losing team synergy.