AC Milan battled Juventus to a 0-0 draw at the Allianz Stadium, exposing both Serie A sides as works-in-progress under their respective managers. While the stalemate felt fair on balance, it revealed critical gaps in Milan's attacking arsenal and highlighted why new signing Yacine Cisse has become central to Amorim's tactical vision.
The numbers told a cautionary tale for Rossoneri fans. Milan controlled possession at 51% but managed only three shots on goal, with just one finding the target. Juventus, by contrast, unleashed 14 attempts, reflecting their greater intensity and precision in transition play. Nico Gonzalez's movement between the lines repeatedly exposed Milan's midfield, while defensive displays from De Winter and Gila—bolstered by a razor-sharp Maignan in goal—kept the hosts at bay. Amorim's shift from Allegri's conservative approach to a more proactive, possession-based system remains incomplete, requiring time and methodical implementation across the squad.
Cisse's Early Promise Signals Direction
Yet amid the frustration sat a beacon of light. Cisse has scored twice in three appearances since arriving, with each goal demonstrating his positioning and finishing acumen. The former Catanzaro striker moves with directness and ruthlessness, already becoming indispensable to Amorim's 3-4-2-1 formation. His movement inside the box and natural goalscoring instinct have marked him as superior to current options like Saelemaekers, whom Amorim has unconventionally deployed as an attacking midfielder. While Saelemaekers' athleticism deserves protection given his age, Cisse's efficiency suggests Milan have unearthed genuine quality for the Serie A title race.
The midfielder role Amorim demands requires different characteristics than what Saelemaekers or Loftus-Cheek consistently deliver: someone who can break defensive lines and create space for strikers. This is where Christian Pulisic becomes essential. The American international's absence has left Milan's attacking midfielder position toothless. When fully fit, Pulisic combines directness with goal threat—precisely what Milan need to compete against elite defenses. He remains behind schedule fitness-wise but is expected to accelerate his conditioning this week ahead of the Lazio fixture.
What Lies Ahead for Rossoneri
Milan's path forward hinges on two factors: Cisse's consistency as a focal point and Pulisic's swift return to match sharpness. The 0-0 draw exposed depth issues across both teams, yet Amorim has shown glimpses of his tactical philosophy taking root. Against Lazio this weekend, the availability of Pulisic could prove transformative for a side hungry to climb Serie A's standings and challenge Juventus' early season momentum.
