CM: From hero to zero – why Fonseca should partner Pavlovic with Gabbia | OneFootball

Despite being one of the best players for AC Milan last season, Matteo Gabbia is yet to play a single minute under Paulo Fonseca’s management. Considering the struggles in defence, the manager would make a serious mistake not to give the Italian a chance.

Gabbia returned from his loan spell at Villarreal in the middle of last season due to Milan’s injury crisis. He made an impact immediately and quickly became one of the most important players, named the best player based on our player ratings last season.

As highlighted by Calciomercato.com, the fact that Gabbia has yet to play a minute under Fonseca’s guidance is rather strange, especially considering the struggles at the back. Strahinja Pavlovic has been the only positive and with that in mind, the academy product could be the perfect complement.

Pavlovic plays in advance, fights for every ball and needs a reliable player alongside him who knows how to provide coverage in behind. Furthermore, he needs someone who always maintains the right position and helps set up the game (as the Serbian’s passing isn’t great).

All characteristics that Tomori, at the moment, cannot guarantee but that Gabbia has shown since his return. Last season, he had an average of 1.5 tackles per game, only 1.5 fouls committed, 3.4 balls recovered and 58% of duels won. Not too shabby, in other words, and he deserves a chance.