GdS: ‘The most European soul’ – Milan must begin showing their credentials again | OneFootball

AC Milan are one of the most successful teams in Europe, and on the European stage, they have been historically dominant. In recent years, though, that dominance has not shown. Therefore, the Rossoneri must awaken, and find themselves once again.

The fixture against Liverpool provides a story from the past. Historically, that tale has often not been favourable for Milan, at least aside from that night in Athens as the club lifted their 7th Champions League title.

As Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) writes, ‘Milan is the Italian club with the most European soul’. However, for that European soul to show, you must look to the past – a trend which must change, starting with the clash against Liverpool.

Habits

The Rossoneri have played eleven finals in the Champions League, most of them against similar opponents, though. Twice they have played Ajax, Benfica, and Tuesday’s visitors, Liverpool. Looking specifically at the last name on the list, the story has been written in two ways.

In 2005, a heartbreaking collapse. In 2007, a seventh success.

The present, though, does not tell a similar story. In the current moment, reaching a feat like a final – let alone winning one – seems miles away. However, Gazzetta suggests that the struggles in Serie A could be lessened in the Champions League due to more ‘open’ fixtures.

Milan of present

For Tuesday’s fixture, the Diavolo are expected to name a side filled with foreign talent, and perhaps, this could assist them. Several of the lineup are accustomed to big games, and many of them have played on this stage.

Furthermore, facing Liverpool is not a new thing for several of the squad, lessening the pressure of playing against one of Europe’s elite.

For Fonseca, his ideas of football could be allowed to flow in Europe, due to a slightly less rigid game. It can be questioned whether his approach may be better suited to playing Liverpool than it would be playing against Parma.

Gazzetta states, though, that if his style is not better suited, then Milan could be on the end of a humiliating result.

Lessened pressure

With the new Champions League format, there also is less pressure on this fixture. Of course, playing at home always bears some pressure, but in the old format, a win was a must if the Rossoneri were to progress.

Now, there are additional chances, and perhaps, the pressure is lessened. Of course, the fans will not see it that way, and if there are any signs of less than 110% being given, the game will write itself.