Article by Raffaele (@ItalianoCalcio)
The definition of the word “rebirth” is a new or second birth. Silvio Berlusconi said it himself, he simply couldn’t compete with the wealthy clubs throughout the world in the transfer market. Milan’s struggle to develop their own young talent and the lack of money to spend helped lead to this down period. Earlier this year, Berlusconi sold Milan to a Chinese ownership group. This new ownership group set out on a mission to build a team that can become competitive sooner, rather than later. They hired Massimo Mirabelli as a director and he said that he wanted to build this “New Milan” early in the transfer market. Mirabellihas been a man of his words.
Milan have come out swinging this transfer period. The Rossoneri have already made three significant signings; Mateo Musacchio, Franck Kessie, and Ricardo Rodriguez. That alone would be a great mercato, but Milan don’t appear to be done quite yet. They are targeting several other players to bolster their roster.
Mateo Musacchio is a defender that Milan had tried signing in the past, but did not have the financial capabilities to do so. Vincenzo Montella will now get to pair the Argentine along with Alessio Romagnoli, a nice defensive upgrade. Milan’s new ownership did not stop there with upgrading their defense. Ricardo Rodriguez was recently signed, providing Montella with a versatile right-back. Rodriguez is known for his ability to come forward and help create chances in the offensive phase of the game.
Franck Kessie, a very coveted young jewel at Atalanta, ended up joining the Rossoneri. Kessie was being pursued by several big clubs throughout Europe, but ultimately said this new project at Milan was appealing to him. Two years ago, or so, Milan would not have been able to sign a player like Franck Kessie, given his price tag and the other teams competing for him. The Kessiesigning doesn’t only symbolize Milan upgrading their midfield, it shows that they can once again compete with the wealthy clubs.
We can start to see a path for a Milan rebirth. They are making significant signings, have money to spend, and already have some talented young players; Gianluigi Donnarumma and Alessio Romagnoli. Earlier this summer, Milan gave Vincenzo Montella a new contract extension until June 2019. The club has committed themselves to L’Aeroplanino, which is a reassurance for the players knowing who their coach will be.
Between the new signings, the talent already on the roster, plus the innovative mind of Montella, it is an exciting time for Milan. When is the last time we were able to say that? A rebirth is upon us, and it is happening in Milan.
