Defeat exposes defensive frailties for Milan
Napoli extended their domestic firepower against Milan as they claimed a 2-0 victory in the Supercoppa Italiana semi-final. The result highlighted fundamental issues in Milan’s backline and raised questions about how quickly the Rossoneri can arrest a run of conceding chances that have plagued their start to the calendar year. After the final whistle, Adrien Rabiot spoke candidly to Mediaset, insisting that Milan cannot hide behind injuries or absences and must improve defensively if they want to be serious contenders on multiple fronts.
Rabiot’s candid assessment and the team’s response
Rabiot did not mince words when discussing Milan’s performance. “We concede too much; referees are not doing well” was one of the headlines from his assessment, but the midfielder quickly pivoted to Milan’s own responsibilities. While acknowledging Napoli’s quality, he pressed his teammates to tighten their defensive organization, limit counter-attacks, and reduce simple errors that have cost them in important fixtures.
The Italian pressure and pace that Napoli applied in the first half forced Milan to defend on their heels more often than not. The Milan defense appeared vulnerable to overlaps and quick switches of play, and Napoli’s forward line repeatedly found space to test the goalkeeper. Rabiot’s comments emphasize a broader team responsibility: with a schedule packed with league matches and European competition in the coming months, Milan cannot rely on luck or a run of favorable fixtures to cover defensive lapses.
Technical adjustments and the long road ahead
From a tactical standpoint, Milan will be looking to rebuild their defensive balance. The coaches will likely revisit their back four and midfield shield, seeking a steadier shape to prevent the kinds of gaps that Napoli exploited. The conversation around refereeing decisions, though always part of the match day experience, should not obscure the need for more disciplined positioning and tighter marking in dangerous areas.
Beyond the immediate reaction to the semi-final, Milan’s broader objective is clear: reset quickly for the league campaign and maintain confidence in a squad capable of competing at the top level. The manager will want to see concrete improvements in collective defending, transition moments, and the ability to control the tempo when in possession. A team of Milan’s stature cannot rely solely on individual moments of quality; consistency in defense must be built, game by game.
Supporters and the road to redemption
Supporters will have their say in the days ahead, but the reality remains that Milan will judge themselves by results and the trajectory of their defensive record. The club’s project hinges on a balance between attack and discipline at the back, and Rabiot’s statement serves as a catalyst for a frank internal review. If Milan can translate this sense of urgency into practical improvements, they will be better equipped to handle the pace of Serie A and the challenges of the cup competitions that lie ahead.
What’s next for Napoli and Milan?
Napoli’s win adds momentum to their campaign, reinforcing their status as a team capable of pressing rivals with high-intensity football. For Milan, the focus shifts quickly to the next domestic fixture and the constant evaluation of defensive partnerships and coaching plans. The two clubs, now separated by a single result in a high-stakes trophy semifinal, have a clear path forward: to reinforce their defensive foundations while maintaining the attacking threat that makes them dangerous in attack.
