GdS: From RLC to the centre-backs – five big positives for Fonseca after Milan-Venezia | OneFootball

The 4-0 win against Venezia did not magically fix all of AC Milan’s problems, but there were at the very least some positives to take and try build on for Paulo Fonseca.

La Gazzetta dello Sport write how ten magic wands waved at the same time would not be enough to solve all of Milan’s issues but there was certainly some movement along the right path, especially given the Liverpool and Inter examinations that follow.

The first positive note is Matteo Gabbia, who was hastily recalled from Villarreal in January during an injury crisis and became one of the most consistent performers. Fonseca thew him in against Venezia, partly because he trusts him anyway and partly because of the need to rotate, and he responded with a great performance, even (almost) celebrating a goal.

Paradoxically, Strahinja Pavlovic is one of Gabbia’s problems, because he has settled in quickly and already seems to be an immovable starter. His aggression and physicality are why Zlatan Ibrahimovic has nicknamed him the ‘animal’ but it must be channeled in the right way. After being erratic against Parma and Lazio, he was certainly much more composed against the Venetians.

Then there is Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who has alternated between playing in the double pivot and as an attacking midfielder this season. Alongside Youssouf Fofana, the Englishman helped build a solid wall in front of the defence, adding size and the ability to drive play forward with his runs. This could be vital against Liverpool and Inter.

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The fourth positive is Christian Pulisic, who remains decisive. Having been tried down the middle the USA international is now back on the right and has continued after a debut season with 26 goal contributions. He got an assist from a set piece and a goal from the spot, also giving a second penalty to Tammy Abraham.

Finally, and speaking of Tammy, he has arrived initially with the role of being Alvaro Morata’s deputy but knowing he would get chances. Against Venezia – after a positive debut vs. Lazio – he showed a willingness to sacrifice and assist his team-mates, also moving smartly to free up space. If this continues, he will be knocking firmly on the door.