(FM18) Rossoneri Resurrection

[BJT]

(FM18) Rossoneri Resurrection

The past five seasons of 8^th, 10^th, 7^th, 6^th, and again this year failing to make Europe’s elite competition has seen the once giants of Italian football fall into a state of mediocrity, with a failure in no longer attracting the best talent that the football world has to offer.

With rivals Inter in the same boat, and no recent signs of improvement having been shown, The Milan board have decided to place their faith in Moss as the man to resurrect past successes which have been away from the red half of the San Siro for far too long.

Impressed with the “Moss footballing philosophy” of an attacking and patient brand of possession based football, it is felt he will be able to build a strong rapport with the fans and bring back trophies the club so desires.

The Moss Philosophy

Involves high pressing and a high defensive line to promote the return of quick ball retrieval prior to the recycling and patient building of sustained pressure in the offensive third, aided by a highly symmetrical formation design whilst utilising the full width of the pitch.

The three midfielders will act as pivots, to bring a degree of ball retention stability whilst bringing in the offensive wingbacks into play, overlapping the inside forwards who will bring the more direct attacking threat towards the opponent’s back-line.

The lone forward will assist in creating the space for the inside forwards by dropping deep, leaving space for them to exploit through the middle, whilst also having the ability to cause problems with both dribbling skill and creativity.

Moss loves to promote a patient, very fluid short passing and attacking possession football game, aiming to create a “well oiled machine” that will be difficult to contain.

 

[BJT]

Season 1 Objectives

Moss’ first priority is to break into the Champions League places. A good domestic cup run is also of importance to not only bringing in confidence to the players, but to instil a mentality of being able to compete for trophies.

Player wise, Moss wants to get to know his players, and then identify those areas where the team needs to invest to promote the football he wants to implement.

Moss is also looking forward to work with Bonucci and also help the development of Donarumma whom he sees as integral to the long-term success of the club.

Board Expectations

Serie A – Euro Cup Qualification

Euro Cup – Reach Final

Coppa Italia – Not Important

Transfer Activiy

With a long term injury to first team right back Conti, Moss had his hand forced to invest in a good right back replacement, picking Villareal and Spanish full back Mario as his choice.

Two advanced playmakers also joined the fray, with two highly technical players in Pizzi and Ozyakup identified as players who can do a good job to try and control the centre of the park.

Inside forward Juanpi has added depth to the attacking third of the squad, a capable replacement for Suso on the right side of the front three.

First XI

[superbowl145]

Following 

[BJT]

Season 1 - August to December Review

Serie A (Current Position – 2^nd)

Milan have done well to end the first half of the year in second place. After having a great start to the year, as the media described “Milan down to the bare-bones”, led to Milan suffering a poor run of form.

For the majority of the time, Milan were lounging in fifth spot. But after a good away point away to runaway leaders Juventus, Milan have won seven games on the bounce, placing Moss’ side in a strong position to reach their target of a top four finish.

Coppa Italia (KO – Quarter Finals)

An agonising defeat via the dreaded penalty shootout ended Milan’s hopes of reaching the Semi-Finals. Despite dominating proceedings at the Stadio Olimpico, Moss’ side were unable to unlock the Roma door, with Bonucci missing the final penalty. The game had ended 0-0 after ET.

Euro Cup (Current Status – Reached Knockout Stages)

After disposing of Quabala and Sion in the qualification stages, Milan comfortably came out top of their Euro Cup group. With teams such as Apol Limassol, Vitesse and Malmo there was not much resistance. However Malmo did spring a surprise defeat winning 2-1 on their own turf.

Current Evaluation

A generally good start to Moss' Milan career. Transfers made in the Summer have so far performed well, contributing to the current successes. The majority of performances have been good, but there has been the tendency for some inconsistent games. The 2-0 home defeat to Lazio was perhaps the most poor display this season so far, but the 4-0 away thumping against Roma in the league being the highlight.

Silva up-front has nearly scored a goal every game, and new signing Juanpi has come in and done extremely well for Suso who has missed a substantial number of games so far.

The development of Locateli in the centre of midfield has been a real plus filling in for any injuries in this area of the squad. Montolivo's best days are past him, and has dropped down the pecking order following Locateli's promising form.

The key area as suggested in the league table is working on the defence. Although Milan have some good defenders, left back Rodriguez is perhaps lacking a little pace to be comfortable playing in a high defensive line. Moss is already scouting for a left back for the next Summer transfer window.

[BJT]

Season 1 - Squeaky Bum Time

After a good run of form coming into the New Year, since the turn of the year there has been a great contrast in fortunes and unfortunately for the worse. With teams now sitting back more and playing more direct and on the counter, it has exposed our defensive frailties. 

One big factor has been the poor discipline shown by Moss' squad. Currently Milan have considerably suffered the most red cards so far this season, and finding any rhythm and squad consistency has been hard to come by as a result.

With April and May left of the calendar months, although still in a position to quality for the Champions League, there is stiff competition developing. And after suffering defeats such as 0-1 at home to Spal, 1-5 at home to Fiorentina, 5-2 away to Napoli, and a 2-5 home defeat to Juventus, confidence is low. Milan also went out to Liverpool in the 2nd round of the Euro Cup, although this defeat could be forgiven.

Moss will need to turn things around quickly if they are to make a top four finish theirs. However the harder fixtures appear to be out the way, but putting away teams that sit-back is not a forgone conclusion.

 

 

 

[BJT]

Season 1 - Review

A large degree of relief for the AC Milan fans when it was finally confirmed they would be participating in next season's Champions League. Roma were pushing The Rossoneri all the way for fourth spot, but Moss' troops held firm after picking up 14 points out of 21 in the end of season run-in.

Juventus took home the domestic double this year, smashing all opposition which came in their way, finishing with a total of 96 points in the league with a +70 goal difference. Napoli and Lazio both finished above Milan, tied on 77 points, with Moss' side being 3 points adrift of both.

Moss will have learnt a lot from his first season in charge, from both the talent at his disposal to the defensive problems that were further magnified in the second half of the season.

Milan's home form also was not the best, losing at home five times is far too many to be challenging for the title. But surpisingly the away form was second best in the league, only behind champions Juventus.

The top 3 performers this year go to Andre Silva, scoring 32 goals in 48 games averaging 7.44 in rating. Giacomo Bonaventura did a great job after being injured for the first few months of the season, also averaging 7.44 and chipping in with 10 goals and 13 assists. Alessio Romagnoli had a good season at the back averaging 7.40, and performed better than the ageing Bonucci.

Despite the tougher second half of the season, some statistics do give some telling reading. Milan were kings of the possession by a fair way, averaging just under 60% possession whilst also creating the most chances by any team, even ahead of Juventus.

However the lack of clean sheets amounting to only 15, along with 12 red cards suffered during the Serie A campaign really did hinder any hopes of finishing closer to top spot. 

Next season will prove tricky. It appears Moss still doesn't quite know his best eleven. The budget agreed at the end of the year doesn't even reach 1 million to spend. It appears Moss will need to do a lot of wheeling and dealing in the Summer to be able to bring in the additional recruits needed to close the gap to this years champions.

[BJT]

Season 2 Objectives

After scraping into the top four places, this year will be one very much of maintaining this position. With a tiny transfer budget and funds only made available by selling existing squad members, Milan probably won’t yet be ready to give a real title challenge at this point.

A tough Champions League group that includes PSG, Man City, and Dynamo Kiev will mean reaching the board objectives of the knockout stages will be a real challenge. Moss will do his best, but the likelihood is third spot is where Milan should expect to finish.

Board Expectations

Serie A – ECL Qualification

Euro Cup – ECL Knockouts

Coppa Italia – Not Important

Transfer Activity

With quality right winger Suso only available for five games last season, this will be like a new signing if he can stay injury free. Moss will be hoping his presence will increase the team’s proficiency in taking their chances, especially with Milan creating the most in last season’s Serie A.

Last minute deals saw Argentinian defender Mussachio leave for Barcleona. The +40mil transfer fee was too good to turn down for a backup player, giving Moss a little more manoeuvrability in the market.

Moss also decided to let Rodriguez go to PSG for a little over 11mil, with Emerson from Chelsea brought in as his replacement. Caldara came in as Mussachio’s replacement for a fee of 15mil to keep the squad balanced with cover.

Moss also saw the chance to bolster his midfield by snapping up Barcelona failure Andre Gomes. Moss will be hoping the midfielders will be motivated to prove his critics wrong.

Other signings made were done prior to Moss taking the helm. Although Kalinic and Fabio Borini have now joined permanently after being on loan last year, Moss likely fails to see a future for either of these players at the club and will want to move them on at the very first opportunity.

First XI

[BJT]

Season 2 - August to December Review

Serie A (Current Position – 1^st)

This year’s Serie A competition looks to be a tight affair. With Juventus not replacing Buffon after retirement, Juventus appear to be a weaker squad this year.

In addition, Milan appears to have a better squad balance and are playing Moss’ system better. The defensive has tightened up quite considerably, and no long-term injuries suffered in the campaign so far.

However after last year’s collapse from 2^nd spot to almost missing out on the ECL, Moss knows there is a lot of work to do to maintain the challenge for the Scudetto.

Coppa Italia (1^st Round – In Progress)

No games have yet been played by Milan in this competition, but they have drawn a home tie again Bologna.

--

ECL (KO Group Stages – Euro Cup Qualification)

After starting the group promisingly snatching an away draw to Man City with 10 men, the return match at home ultimately cost Moss’ side their place in the next round.

Key men were unavailable for the game, with discipline and injuries resulting in a weakened starting line up. PSG coasted the group, dispatching Milan both times they played.

It will be interesting to see how Moss chooses to prioritise the cup competitions during this second part of the year.

[BJT]

Season 2 – Squeaky Bum Time

It’s all very tight at the top, though the league has now become a two horse race between Juventus and Moss’ Milan.

Milan are still fighting in the Euro Cup where they are at the Quarter Finals stage, whereas Juventus now only have the league to play for.

You would have to fancy Juventus with the free goal-scoring talent they have at hand and only one priority to play for. However, the giants from Turin still have to go to the San Siro to play Milan in the penultimate game.

 

[BJT]

Season 2 – Review

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – (KO Quarter Finals)

EuroCup - Winners

A nail biting end to the season on all accounts. Moss made the decision to sacrifice a strong team in the Italian cup, perhaps with the knowledge he has realised his team both appear injury prone and lack discipline. This could lead to selection problems in the end of season run-in.

Juventus had gained the ascendancy coming into the last couple of months into the season. This led to a potential title decider to be held at the home of the Rossoneri, where a defeat would see Milan’s hopes suffer a bitter blow, but a win would pip them ahead of favourites Juve.

AC Milan 3 – 0 Juventus

A huge win in the penultimate game of the league season. A relatively tight game when it came to game statistics, but the scoreline ended heavily in Milan’s favour.

It was centre forward Silva who came to the fore for Milan, chipping in with a brace. Midfield playmaker Pizzi got the third. All three goals came in before half-time which made the second half a comfortable affair for Milan who held on for the vital victory.

This ended up being crucial. In the last game of the season, Milan lost away to Udinese 2-1. With only a one point advantage, Juventus then needed a victory to prize away the title from Milan’s grasp, to only lose on their own turf to Napoli 1-0.

AC Milan 3 – 0 Athletico Madrid

A tight game with the score not showing a true reflection of the game. Athletico sure had their opportunities in this match, but Milan were that bit more clinical on the day.

A goal each from the attacking trio of Silva, Bonaventura, and Calhanoglu gave Moss the EuroCup trophy in addition to the Serie A, making it a highly successful season.

End of Season Thoughts

A really strange year in the Serie A. A very low points total was needed to win the title this year. Juventus did miss Dybala for a fair number of games this year through injury, and without replacing Buffon this led to them being a lot more inconsistent in the league this year.

Moss will have been extremely happy to have won a cup competition too. It wasn’t the most easy of run-ins, and he chose to play a weaker team for the earlier rounds. But after scraping through on penalties against Espanyol, Moss decided to challenge on all fronts which ended up paying dividends.

However, statistics don’t lie and he will realise the team still needs some improving if they are going to progress further in the Champions League. The defensive line although improved still leaked goals and he will need to decide how to approach next season both with recruits and a tactical perspective. But the number of clean sheets was definitely an improvement, although discipline again the worst in the league.

On a bright note, Silva broke the club's goalscoring record, hitting 40 goals in the season. The previous record was 38. Milan's style was still there to see too, having the most possession of all the sides in the league.

 

[BJT]

Season 3 Preview

Board Objectives

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – Not Important

ECL – Reach First Knockout Round

After winning the title last year, there is greater expectancy to redeliver this success for a second time around. However with a weaker first team compared to last year, Moss knows this will likely be unobtainable, and securing top four must be made.

With an easier ECL group this time around that includes Dortmund, Lyon, and Basaksehir, although still not easy, Moss will be confident if his team performs they will meet the board’s objective.

Moss has also re-evaluated how his team will player. A slight adjustment to how the full-backs will be utilised. Although still very offensive in a positional sense, he is looking to make his team less exposable down the flanks, where a greater emphasis on offensive positioning and less individualism will be asked.

He hopes this will lead to a greater amount of control and an ability to retreat into a solid defensive line upon loss of ball possession.

Transfers

It has been an extremely difficult pre-season for Moss. Several players have expressed a desire to move on, with areas Moss wanting to improve within the squad having to take a back step.

Suso left the club just before the transfer deadline after Real Madrid met the release clause, meaning Moss needed an immediate replacement. Moss also was unable to find a left forward that would improve the side,

Moss did identify two players that were listed that could still contribute to a good season. Juventus right forward Bernardeschi was listed at a cut-down price, along with Horta from Deportivo. Both would provide good value for money, and make the squad stronger as a whole. This aided by bringing in Luke Shaw and Mario Balotelli in for free during the summer.

The budget made available by the board was less than desirable, and the training facilities naturally downgraded. After a meeting with the board, Moss stressed the importance of having good training facilities, and although reluctant, the board agreed to invest with the upgrade.

[BJT]

Season 3 – Mid Season

A very good first of the half of the season for Moss’ Milan, whilst winning the Super Coppa Italia in the process.

Things started difficult with injuries, losing two key members that form the spine of the team.

Advanced playmaker Gomes suffered a 5-6 month injury, with Bonucci out for a couple of months. However the replacements Locatelli and Caldara were certainly up to the task.

An absolute revelation has been Juventus reject Bernardeschi. Scoring as much as striker Silva has meant goals have been easy to come by. And with Moss opting for more positional control, this has resulted in Milan being although less stylish, they are now both harder to breakdown and relentless in coming forward.

Milan currently lay top with a 6 point gap to second. Top scorers at present, and only one defeat leaves Moss’ team in a good position for the second half of the season.

Qualification for the ECL knockouts has also been achieved, albeit in second place. Lyon took top spot, with discipline costing Milan dearly in the last group game.

However as a whole, red cards have been much more minimised this term, most likely due to less rash tackles being needed after losing control at the top of the pitch.

Still in the Coppa Italia too, all is still to play for this year.

[BJT]

Season 3 – Review

 

Super Coppa Italia - Winners

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – Winners

ECL – Knocked out 1^st Round

A season of both surprises and good progression in trying to re-establish Milan amongst Europe’s elite clubs. It’s been a while since making the knockout stages of the Champions League, but this year was a short-lived journey with the attacking talent of Spurs too much for the Italians to handle.

Domestically, Moss made it two times in a row lifting the Scudetto. Although the 6 point gap was made up with Juventus hitting a great run of form in the new year. But their form dipped at the end, with having Champions League priorities to contend with after going further than Milan in the competition.

For the first time managing Milan, Moss was able to finally lift the Coppa Italia in a very close game against Roma. It needed an injury time 25 yarder from the returning long-term injury absentee Andres Gomes to snatch a 3-2 victory.

Moss has now won all domestic trophies available. With also winning the Euro Cup last season, only the Champions League now eludes.

Silva again top scored for Milan this season, but it was Bernardeschi making a vital contribution with 27 goals that helped making this a successful year and being the league’s top scorers.

The defensive line was also solid, having the joint 2^nd best defence in the league. No poor discipline this year, meant points Milan were dropping in previous seasons weren’t thrown away this time around. A 91 points tally gives a good indicator of the strong year Moss’ side had, finishing 4 points above Juventus.

The next step has to be to make the Champions League Quarter Finals or even try for the Semi’s. However it won’t be long till centre back Bonucci will need to be replaced, as he will be 34 next year and doesn’t have a lot of time at the very top level left.

[BJT]

Season 4 Preview

-Board Objectives-

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – Not Important

ECL – Reach Quarter Finals

With two Scudetto’s in a row, whilst ensuring to heavily compete again for the title, the Champions League takes a greater precedence this year especially where this will likely be Bonucci’s final season at the club. No doubt Moss sees topping the group of vital importance to meet these objectives. Milan have been pitched with Arsenal, Dynamo Kiev and BMG.

To the league, the main threat would most likely again appear to come from Juventus. Dybala still at the club, they will always provide a danger as long as they have a world class player amongst their ranks. This is still perhaps what Milan are missing at this moment in time.

First XI

Transfers

Although greater funds are available this year, Moss has found it very difficult to attract top players that are also affordable.

He has already tried to identify a potential replacement for Bonucci, but as yet has not found a worthy target. Additionally, he hasn’t been able to find the kind of left inside forward to supplement the quality of Silva and Bernardeschi up top.

So a quiet off-season in the market. Calhanoglu went off to the premiership with Stoke in order to fund Diogo Joda. It is hoped Joda may thrive where last season’s purchase in Horta failed to perform at a top level. Moss believes Joda’s clear determination to win will help him fulfil the potential he has, and become a leading Serie A forward.

Ndombele also came in on a free transfer, to replace the out of contract Biglia whom Moss chose to let go in the summer. He should provide sufficient enough quality to fill in for Kessi.

[JD nawrat]

Good read mate. Flying through the seasons

interesting tactics too. I love the idea you've got and it's interesting to see it delivering. After a somewhat average first season you've really kicked on. Will continue to follow

[BJT]

Cheers. Yeah, not at all a good first year - I see your working miracles with Torino, keep up the good work!

[BJT]

Season 4 – Mid Season

A pleasing first half of the season for Moss & Co. Although languishing in 3^rd spot for most of the season, a good run of form led Milan to the top of the table. It is however a very close affair this year, with Juventus only a point behind with 45 points. A similar story to last year, scoring the most so far but least goals conceded Juventus.

In the Champions League, poor discipline almost cost Milan top-spot, however a 3-3 draw at home to Arsenal in the last game gave Moss’ 10 men side 1^st position for the first time in the group stages. He will hope the draw is kind to them in the first knockout round.

Discipline has again been a problem so far this season, with Milan enduring the most red cards so far in the league being five. This must improve if Milan are to go further in the ECL and have a good chance of retaining the title.

Silva is again banging in the goals, with Bernardeschi averaging the highest in performance. New signing Jota has become the signing Moss hoped he would be averaging second highest and topping the assists chart even though he has suffered a 2-3 month injury. Moss will want him back as soon as possible.

Bonucci is still doing a good job despite his ageing years. With Moss having him focusing on quickness, he hope this will prolong his ability to play in the system for the remainder of the year, and maybe even have a part to play next season if his form remains good enough.

In other news, long time servant Bonaventura was allowed to move to Liverpool in the January window. Declining as a footballer, Moss saw the opportunity to get Iwobi in from Arsenal in a cut price deal with his contract due for expiry in the Summer. Moss just hopes he settles in quickly to help Milan fight for the remainder of the year.

[BJT]

Season 4 – Review

Super Copa - Winners

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – (KO Semi-Finals)

ECL – (KO Semi-Finals)

A season of progression, with board expectation of a Quarter Final spot in the ECL achieved. Moss may consider themselves very unlucky not to have made the final after losing out to Real Madrid on penalties. Ironically, Bonucci missed his penalty, with Suso coming back to his former club to haunt them and putting the final penalty in to knock out his former side.

Not so unlucky losing to Sassuolo in the Coppa Italia semi’s. The minnows defended resolutely putting their bodies on the line over both legs. In the final they came up against Juventus, but the occasion didn’t deter them and took home the trophy. Beating the top two teams in the Serie A was sure something for them to be proud of.

Moss’ side lost in the semi’s of both competitions to the eventual winners. Such a fine margin between success and failure, but competing on all fronts this term and going far in each competition was a good effort.

In the league, the Rossoneri blew away the Juventus challenge in the turn of the year. A home victory against Juventus helped turn the tide with an 11 point gap created, with which they never let this slip till the season end.

End of Season Thoughts

A successful and season of growth, more so than perhaps expected. Some good business in the transfer market helped to keep this momentum going.

However, it promises to be a summer of changes at Juventues. With Bonucci ageing another year and a few squad players not wanting to renew their contracts, Moss will need to try and bring in adequate replacements.

With a good ECL run, Moss will be hoping the board will be willing to invest more in the transfer market. The gulf in class between Milan and the Euro elites is simply having world class players that can turn games. This is perhaps something Milan doesn’t have at the moment, and only being able to offer wages and consistently competing with the best will entice this type of player to the San Siro.

Player performances were promising this year. Silva beat his previous club record of 40 goals in a season by notching up one more goal. Bernardeschi although not as prolific as last season still scored a number of goals and provided many assists for his team mates. Romagnoli at the back had his best year yet at the club, and seems to be now be the stronghold of the side at the back.

Meanwhile, goalkeeper Donnarumma notched up an impressive 27 clean sheets this term, breaking the previous club record of 23.

[BJT]

Season 5 Preview

Board Objectives

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – Not Important

ECL – Reach Quarter Finals

Thee title’s in a row, the standards set are still expected to be maintained. A manager’s job is never safe if they underachieve, so Moss will be hoping he can bring out the best in his players yet again over the season long haul.

The ECL expectations maintain the same from the board. This perhaps in the realisation the team may not be as strong this year, with a new crop of players needing time to bed-in. Still, Moss will need to ensure a good balance and good recruits do come in to ensure they still are classed as within Europe’s top 8 clubs.

The group handed to Milan is a tricky one again, with Lyon, Valencia and Shaktar all looking to make the next stage.

Transfers

Moss finally got his wish, with a more substantial amount allocated for transfers. It is still not in line with the top clubs, but it is significant enough to try and maintain the progress made last term with a nett spend of GBP million being the largest in Moss’ tenure so far.

Moss finally decided to depart with a few players too realising he will need to generate as much cash as possible for reinvestment. Despite performing very well last year and perhaps able to get another year out of him, with Athletico Madrid willing to pay a 9 million fee and his large wages, Moss felt it was time to let go.

In comes his replacement Benjamin Pavard. Not the quickest centre back, but Moss really likes the way he tries to play his way out of trouble at the back and is very comfortable in bringing the ball out of defence.

Portuguese International playmaker Pizza also left the club, with the young 23 year old Brazilian Wendel coming in. A similar type of player but with the energy that will be needed to combat against other top midfielders amongst him.

Finally, Horta a purchase of Moss was sold to PSG for a sum of 45 million. Horta in fact had a good year for Moss and it was a difficult decision to part ways, especially as he seemed to have been fulfilling his potential and forced his way into the starting 11. However with Brekalo a Croatian international with huge potential and 15 million less, Moss thought it was worth the gamble given Brekalo has international experience too that Horta does not have.

A shrewd bit of business as well after spotting Athletico goalkeeper Jan Oblak was available on a free. He’ll be a fantastic replacement if any serious injury happens to Milan’s number 1 - or to make a bit of profit on.

Mario Balotelli

One move a number of players were very happy about was the sale of Super Mario Balotelli. Although now an experienced forward, he has still been up to his kid-like antics skipping training sessions whenever he so pleases.

Moss decided enough was enough, especially with many players in the squad unhappy and not interested in renewing their contracts. But once Balotelli was sold, Moss was able to tie up some important contracts for the club.

[BJT]

Season 5 – Mid Season

This is Moss’ most difficult season since his first year in charge. The sheer volume of injuries this campaign has led to a lack of consistency in all competitions so far, and his ideal first eleven has barely started a game all together.

Knocked out in front of their home fans against Lazio in the Coppa Italia and losing at home in the ECL to Valencia have both been disappointing losses. A 4-4 draw away to Sassuolo further highlights the defensive frailties that have appeared again since the departure of Bonucci. Milan have clearly missed the leadership qualities he displays on the football pitch.

Consolation though comes in the form of finishing top of their Champions League group. This should hopefully leave a winnable match in the first round of the knockouts, and hope that some form will come to the fore.

In addition, with only being 1 point off the top at the mid-way point, along with Inter and Napoli’s dismal year thus far, it all seems the top four spots are set in stone.

Moss has decided to cash in on Oblak, simply because he recognises that funds may well be needed at some point to improve his team down the line, with a cut priced Kevin Trapp happy to join as a clear number two for Donnarumma.

[kidthekid]

making really good progress. impressive

[BJT]

Season 5 – Review

Super Copa - Winners

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – (KO Quarter Finals)

ECL – Winners

Most definitely a season no-one could call. It was one of those where things could have gone horribly wrong, ending up with a trophy-less campaign and the manager’s job being on the line. In the end, it was a season full of drama.

The Serie A was a tight run thing this year with only 79 points needed to bring the Scudetto home. It was a constantly tussle for top spot with Moss’ Milan, but surprisingly the blue of Lazio. Juventus were never quite close enough to get amongst the mix.

The day most fond to the fans was the dramatic comeback at home to Chievo. It was a game if Milan lost, Lazio would have created a 4 point gap at the top with few games to play. 2-1 down, to then a man down and half an hour left to play, hope appeared lost.

But a Moss masterstroke, taking off Gomes and Silva and bringing on Cutrone and Locatelli for the final 15 minutes paid huge dividends, with the winner being hit 4 minutes into injury time to keep the gap to Lazio at one and the final four games left to play.

In the Champions League, after an away goal victory over Real Madrid in the Semi Finals, it led Milan to face Man Utd in this year's final, held in the Ernst Happel Stadion in Austria,

The final did not fall short of late match drama. Although bossing possession as Milan usually do, it was Man Utd who were taking more pot shots at goal with Rashford missing a glorious number of chances.

But it was a similar story to the comeback against Chievo, where an injury hit Milan showed their resilience when it mattered most.

After going a goal behind to Savic. Alex Iwobi got the Rossonneri level just after the hour mark, but it was Italian superstar Bernardeschi who popped up a minute into injury time beating De Gea at the near post to seal Moss’ first Champions League the club and first success 15 years ago since the 2006/2007 season.

End of Season Thoughts

After a relatively poor first half of the season where injuries were coming in left right and centre, this never really changed throughout the second half of the season. It was very hard to get a first team fit, and so consistent form never quite materialised throughout the season.

But it was when times were tough that seemed to bring out the best in the squad. This will have been so pleasing for Moss to see, with a number of players considered to be shipped out may well have kept their place in the squad for next season.

Silva again performed well, notching up 35 goals this campaign. But it was the squad players that really shone for Moss this year, with Iwobi, Jota, and free signing last summer Ginter doing a good job for the several games new signing Pavard and Romagnoli missed. Donnarumma who took the arm band this year did a great job leading the side to glory.

One thing for sure about this season– it was not good one for the health of Moss’ heart!. Moss will be hoping the board will be willing to again invest in the Summer, with a target of bringing in a world class player amongst the Milan ranks.

[BJT]

Season 6 Preview

Board Objectives

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – Not Important

ECL – Reach Semi Finals

It’s going to be more than a tough task to have a good a season as last year. History suggests the greater difficulties in repeating previous successes, and only a few changes to the existing squad may bring about the extra desire to strive to perform at the very top level.

A nice Champions League draw this season should see Milan comfortably make the next stage, with Monaco, Basel, and Club Brugge the group they have drawn.

Moss will be hoping for a less problematic season with injuries, and that the new signings will spur the squad on for another good season.

On a personal note, Moss is very much looking forward to the European Super Cup and World Club Cup matches. Only these two trophies elude him from completing the full set of trophies possible. It will be interesting to see how he sees his career if all his personal goals are achieved.

Following some of the difficulties last year, especially where teams that tried to press high up were causing Kessi at half-back some problems, Moss has decided to let Pavard have a more ball-playing role at centre back. This in the hope there will be effectively a second outlet for distributing the ball out from the back.

Transfers

With a hefty budget of million pounds, Moss finally has the funds to pursue a player he scouted last term. Noted as a midfield entertainer, Alena’s technical ability along with his passing and vision is what raised Moss’ eyebrows. Unhappy with his current club Valencia, although not willing to sell a 41 million release clause in his contract meant Moss could get his man, and a future world class player he is for sure.

A further notable signing was centre forward Martinez. Young, and already has had a few Argentinean caps to his name, another technical forward who is well suited to the False 9 role could see him be Silva’s understudy this term.

Moss’ first signing Mario at right back is now starting to decline physically, so this is likely to be his last season before his position is under threat. Only funds have deterred Moss from investing in a right back, as the budget had to be a cash payment to bring Alena in.

[BJT]

Season 6 – Mid Season

A huge contrast in the position Milan was in last year at this stage. Moss is delighted with his squad, and he can finally see the sort of stylish, creative, and possession football he promised to finally bring and deliver to the Milan faithful. He can’t keep the smile off his face on the sidelines.

A 4-0 home trouncing against rivals Inter is proof in the pudding, whilst putting 7 past Sundowns in the World Club Championship Semis was a festive display of attacking football.

Alena has been conducting the orchestra at the centre of the park, Brekalo fulfilling his potential down the left flank causing teams all sorts of problems with his dribbling ability, and Pavard is commanding and developing the play nicely from the back. Donnarumma still so young but now extremely experienced notching up over 50 Italian caps at the age of 23. And Italian Bernardeschi is still the most consistent performer for the side with Silva continuing to bag the goals.

Moss has also added both the European Super Cup and World Club Championship to his CV, winning 4-1 vs Leverkussen and 3-1 vs Boca respectively. Only a 4-0 away loss to Monaco the main blemish so far, but that was a B string side in the group’s last game having already qualified top.

There will be no transfer activity this January with the objective of trying to tie up as many contracts as possible. A right back will be the priority though, so Moss will be getting his scouting team to try and find a good replacement for the ageing Mario in the summer.

Moss has had a bit of an injury crisis of late with 7 members unavailable, but his team have continued to dig out results in the mean-time. He will want everyone fit before the Champions League recommences in February and continue to keep a comfortable 9 point gap with a game in hand that has developed in the league.

[BJT]

Season 6 – Review

Euro Super Cup – Winners

World Club Championship - Winners

Super Copa Italia - Winners

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – (KO Quarter Finals)

ECL – Winners

After an excellent first half of the season in the league, Moss’ Milan were able to continue a good level of consistency in their game till the end. The 11 point gap created was well maintained, ending up a substantial 15 points between 2^nd placed Juventus.

Argentine Martinez did a splendid job providing excellent coverage for the lengthy injury suffered to Silva, and the recruitments last Summer all chipped in to make it a comfortable title this year. Calabria an ever present at the club since Moss took the helm, finally broke into the first team at right back replacing the aging Mario. Alena lived up to his heft price tag and didn’t disappoint Moss one bit this year.

Five out of six possible trophies were snapped up by Moss’ troops. The only disappointment being a 1-0 defeat against Roma in the Coppa Italia Quarters. It wasn’t helped with Romagnoli being sent off in the 28^th minute, but Milan still bossed and had many more chances to put the game to bed.

A big aim of Moss was to be able to have the chance to retain the Champions League Trophy this year, and it was by no means easy. Only away goals got them passed a Spurs outfit with a game style so dangerous against the way Moss sets up his side. But after putting in their best performance of the year comfortably dispatching Porto including that 9-1 home win and a Silva double hatrick,  left Milan paired against money-bags PSG in the final.

Milan 3 - 1 PSG (AET)

Paris with bags of pace up front caused the Milan defence all sorts of problems with Neymar, Mane, and Mbappe having several pops at Donnarumma’s goal. Very even in possession, PSG probably deserved the win creating more clear cut chances, and they seemed completely in control of the game being a goal up.

But as with last season’s late drama, after another Moss masterstroke with a triple substitution late on, the energetic impact that came proved exactly what was needed to keep the match alive with a 90^th minute equaliser coming from Brekalo after sub Martinez who came in for an under par Silva played an excellent through ball for Brekalo to place his shot into the bottom corner.

Into Extra Time and the momentum had completely shifted. The late goal clearly hit PSG hard with Milan grabbing a further couple of goals in very quick succession. Gomes finishing coolly from the spot, and a minute later Martinez again impacting the game but with Brekalo this time supplying the cross which was well converted, giving Moss his second Champions League trophy.

End of Season Thoughts

Some very good performers made this an excellent season. Silva broke the record of goals in a Champions League game of 19, and Brekalo also breaking the assists record.

Bernadeschi again mister consistency averaging the highest, with Alena, Donnarumma, and Romagnoli being important figures and are the spine of the Milan side.

With Calabria improving as a player and now has an international cap to his name, Moss has a decision to make whether to invest in a right back, or give him a full season to see how he performs. He does however seem to not enjoy the big games, which may be what determines Moss to spend big on a top quality right back this Summer.

It is believed that Moss will stay at Milan for at least another season. Rumours are he has his sights set on equalling and maybe breaking the record for the number of Scudettos won consecutively. Currently Juventus hold the record winning seven titles in a row. Moss’ Milan currently have five.

[BJT]

Season 7 Preview

Board Objectives

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – Not Important

ECL – Reach Semi Finals

The objectives from the board this year remain the same, to be within the top 4 clubs in Europe again, whilst aiming for another title to edge nearer to Juventus’ record 7 consecutive Scudettos.

What has been a pleasing note since Moss’ time at Milan, is the steady rise of the attendances. This along with revenue from the Champions League successes has allowed a little more room to invest within the market and keep Milan in touch with the other major European clubs again.

It would be unimaginable to think a third Champions League title would be possible, but Zidane’s success at Real Madrid goes to show that anything is indeed possible.

The team’s age is still in decent shape, with a number of key players still having a good number of years left before they will eventually need to be moved on. This thinking is what has led Moss to make a only a couple of changes this year, but are significant ones.

Transfers

Out goes Moss’ first Milan signing Mario. The right back now at 32 years old has decided to move over to Shanghai for the remainder of his years for 10.75 million pounds.

Another of Moss’ signings shipped is Andres Gomes. He’s certainly proved his failings at Barcelona were only there, having an excellent time at Milan.

However Moss noticed his physical side of his game was starting to deteriorate. Although still technically gifted and still had much to offer, it wouldn’t be too long before his value would start to decline.

But with much quality there, Man City came in with a 46 million pounds bid that Moss couldn’t refuse. He also personally wished Gomes the best of luck and made it known he had been a great servant to him.

Moss decided to spend big this Summer doubling what was received in revenue. In comes Liverpool right back Trent Alexander Arnold. His pace and quality of delivery into the box is something Silva will thrive on this year.

In addition, another Italian international has been added to the Milan ranks with Lorenzo Pellegrini. At 27 years of age and coming from rivals Roma, he has a better all-round game than Gomes, more with his footballing brain. Knowing the Italian language will mean he should settle in quickly to the Milan setup.

[BJT]

Season 7 – Mid Season

This year is a highly competitive one, for the Scudetto at least. Juventus have been in superb form the whole first half of the season, notching up 50 points in the process. Compared to Moss’ Milan however, the Rossoneri have a 1 point advantage with 51 points. It’s Moss’ best first half of a campaign during his Milan tenure, and he’s picked the best year to achieve this.

Giving them the edge was a winner from Silva in a 5-4 home win vs Juventus. Although 4-1 up, Juventus came back miraculously into the match and threatened to go and pinch it. However Moss made sure his side kept their composure, and these 3 points could prove vital come the end of the year.

In the Champions League, both last year’s finalists were drawn in the same group. PSG, Milan, Valencia, and Hapoel from Israel made up Group A. Probably the group of death in this year’s competition. This proved to be the case, where coming into the last game Milan were out the competition. However a home win vs Hapoel, and Valencia losing at home to PSG meant Moss’ side took home second place, 3 points behind group winners PSG.

Milan also still remain in the Coppa Italia, already one step further than last year with a Semi-Finals tie against Juventus. It looks like these two Italian giants will be fighting for all the domestic trophies this year, and the Champions League too where Juventus comfortably topped their group.

In other Cup news, Milan have done the treble by winning the European Super Cup vs Liverpool. The game went into Extra Time after the game ended 1-1 after 90 minutes. Sub Martinez scored the winning goal meaning Moss retained this trophy.

The Super Coppa Italia was a much more comfortable affair. Although the score was only 2-0 against Roma, Milan were by far the dominant side and could have had a handful of goals at least.

There was little resistance to the Rossoneri in the World Club Championship this year with a solid performance giving Milan a 3-0 win in the final against FLA.

With so many games being played this year, it will be interesting to see whether Milan can cope with the demands of fighting in every single competition available to them.

[BJT]

Season 7 – Review

Euro Super Cup – Winners

World Club Championship - Winners

Super Copa - Winners

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – (KO Semi Finals)

ECL – Winners

With Juventus neck and neck with Milan going into the second half of the season, it was the Bianconeri who began to stutter. Dropping several points within a month, the gap suddenly extended to 9 points with Moss’ side looking in pole position for their sixth Scudetto.

A priceless away victory in Turin meant Milan did the double over Juventus this year, and they couldn’t find a way back to close the gap. Consistent to the end, Moss’ team broke two clubs records this season. One the most number of wins in a season now at 30, and the points total in a league season ending on 96.

Zidane’s Juventus came in second finishing on 87 points. However he brought his own style of attacking football this term, outscoring Milan and also had the better goal difference. He also took the manager of the year award. Knocking out Milan in the Coppa Italia Semi’s maybe helped his cause, but to only falter to Lazio in the final.

And despite their trophyless season, it was Moss who emulated Zidane’s Champions league record, equalling three Champions League wins in a row after beating his old side Real Madrid 1-0 in the final.

Bossing the game with possession, it was Silva who grabbed the winning goal for Milan with Romagnoli putting in a MOTM performance on the day. This all after beating Barcelona (AET), and PSG enroute to the final, where both matches Milan needed to over-turn a 1-0 deficit in the first leg.

Equalling last season’s trophy haul of six out of a possible seven, it was another successful season for Moss.

End of Season Thoughts

The two signings of Arnold at right back and Pellegrini certainly added an extra zip to the team, looking better both offensively, defensively, and in possession of the football. Settling in so quickly and performing well from the off was vital in retaining the title especially after Juventus’ strong start.

Another excellent season for Silva up front hitting 42 goals this term. The spine of the team all performed well. However, Bernardeschi performed below the high standards he had set the previous 4 seasons under Moss, and now at 30 years old he is starting to lose some of the pace that he once had.

Moss will certainly have some thinking to do in whether to cash in on the Italian international or whether he can still contribute another year or two for the team.

It’s going to be hard for Moss to better the previous year, especially where the squad in areas are starting to age a little along with Juventus’ seemingly substantial rise from last year.

But it is six Scudetto’s in a row now, with only one more needed to equal Juventus’ record of seven. This is bound to be Moss’ priority this coming season - and Zidane's to stop it from happening.

So where does Moss currently stand with his own records in the seven years he's been at Milan? He currently has a win rate of 68%, 6 League titles and 14 cup wins whilst notching up 3 awards in the process. 

Performance of the year most definitely was the home tie vs PSG. Playing for a play in the Champions League final and over 80,000 fans at the San Siro, Moss' side produced a performance both clinical and full of desire to make it 3 ECL finals in a row, coming from 1-0 behind on agg to win 4-1 overall.

 

 

[BJT]

Season 8 Preview

Board Objectives

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – Not Important

ECL – Reach Semi Finals

This promises to be a testing year for Moss. A number of players seem unsettled and want to move abroad. Moss wasn’t having any of it, requesting his two star centrebacks stay.

The likelihood is the successes over the past two seasons won’t be met. Although the year has started off well with winning the European Super Cup and the Super Coppa Italia, the performances did not seem quite there, in both games struggling to put their opposition away.

Age is most certainly starting to catch up with some players, with the coaching staff noticing the abilities of players declining. Silva may not be a prolific as he has been, Bernardeschi no longer as quick off the mark as he was. It won’t be long for Romagnoli will start struggling for pace. So it is only a matter of time before the core players for the past few years will need to be moved on.

Transfers

A fairly quiet market for Moss this Summer, but not out of choice. With very few left wingers around, a panic buy in bringing Bayern reject Traore in was the onky option available to Moss for investing in a replacement for Bernardeschi, whom Moss has been unable to offload as there has been no interest.

Berardi brought in a small transfer fee in, but an absolute bargain for Torino at only 3.5 million pounds. Traore on the other hand cost 47.5 million pounds, so Milan have spent a much higher nett spend than Moss ideally wanted.

Moss will be continuing to try to scout for long-term replacements over the defensive, flank, and forward positions during the year.

[BJT]

Season 8 – Mid Season

As Moss had anticipated, this season wasn’t going to be plain sailing unlike last year. Notably there is a missing “bite” in the offensive third from Milan. Silva has been considerably under-par, with Moss making note. His penalty miss against Inter in a game that ended 1-1 could prove very costly by the end of the year.

Traore hasn’t settled in great with several recurring injuries stopping any form that appeared to be developing. Brekalo has been in a similar situation, and it has all meant for some very lacklustre performances.

Milan also struggled to get out of their Champions League group. An away point to Shaktar in the final game cemented the place in the last 16, with a late winner bringing a sigh of relief to Moss after Shaktar missed several good opportunities in the game.

Moss has however bagged another three trophies, retaining the European Super Cup, Super Coppa Italia, and the World Club Championship. However making a 7^th consecutive Scudetto will more than likely be his toughest task yet.

[BJT]

Season 8 – Review

European Super Cup - Winners

Super Coppa Italia – Winners

World Club Championship - Winners

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – Winners

ECL – Knocked out 1^st Round

A strong finish to the season turned Milan’s season around, which had promised to have been gazumped from their fierce rivals Inter. Taking 31 out of a possible 33 points in their last 11 games led to a 6 point deficit being overturned. This included two 1-0 victories against in-form Inter and Juventus. And no coincidence this form came when both inside forwards Brekalo and Traore finally were getting a rhythm to their game by avoiding injuries.

This was also likely in part due to being knocked out early on in the Champions League knockouts by Man City. Although ahead after the first leg, City came back to win 6-4 on aggregate. This may have been a blessing in disguise for finding some much needed league form.

In the Italian cup, although historically Moss hasn’t fared so well here this year the trophy came back to the red half of Milan. Dispatching Bologna in the semi’s left a final against mighty Juventus.

A tight encounter, although the best chances did fall to Milan in the first 90. However the game remained scoreless at this point with extra time needed. Out went the out of sorts of this season Silva with Martinez coming in. Moss’ gamble again paid dividends, with the Argentine proving the catalyst to fire Milan to an eventual 3-0 win AET. It probably was a game Moss’ side deserved to win, but anything can happen in extra time of a game when fatigue sets in. Moss was delighted to bring this trophy home.

End of Season Thoughts

So a good season in the end for the Rossoneri, now equalling Juventus’ 7 Scudetto’s in a row.

It was very noticeable however the decline of Silva. An average high of 7.54 had slumped to 7.00 in the last year. Moss will very likely look to cash in on the now soon to be 30 year old knowing his value will diminish quite sharply in good time.

Unfortunately Italian international centre back Caldara chose not to renew his contract despite several attempts by Moss to persuade the 31 year old to stay. It will be interesting to see who will come in as a replacement. Offers had come in before the January window, but with no immediate centre backs available on the market, Moss decided to make sure he saw out his time left.

The defence this season was surprisingly something Milan did rely on a fair amount of the year. Notching up 20 clean sheets certainly kept the defeats this year to a minimum and kept Milan in the title race throughout the year.

So two clear targets seem imminent in this off-season transfer window for a centre back and a striker. Filling these spots will prove important if Moss is to break the Serie-A record of 8 title wins on the trot. This especially where Moss has shown his discontent to the board in not keeping the training facilities up to date. Not being able to train players to their full potential doesn’t sit at all well with the Milan boss.

[BJT]

Season 9 Preview

Board Objectives

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – Not Important

ECL – Reach Semi Finals

A season where re-establishing Milan back to the top 4 in Europe’s elite competition and making an eighth successive title are Moss’ targets for the year. Reports suggest it could very well be his final year at the club before pastures new.

Much could well depend on the board’s attitude to keeping the club in as good a state as possible with its facilities, and the finances to support continuous success at the very top level.

It doesn’t look like any changes with the way Milan play will be happening this year. Pavard still shows excellent ability in playing out from the back, and Alena in midfield controls games well. Moss will also hope to see the best from Traore after having a season to bed-in.

The Champions League draw however is a real tough one. Real Madrid, Dortmund, and Zenith make up Milan’s group this year.

Transfers

After the analysis of changes needed in the off-season, it looks like Moss may have his men for this year.

Although now 33, Jemerson at centre back still displays excellent pace and ball playing ability. On a free transfer, this was a great bargain and will be a more than adequate replacement for the departed Caldara.

Silva was also sold to Leicester City for eventually 30 million pounds. Moss negotiated an extra 5 million, which proved handy for investing in the highly rated Dortmund striker Bjelanovic.

Endorsing the move was Croatian international team mate Brekalo. Moss hopes these two will have a great partnership in the attacking third with the inside forward helping him settle into the side quickly. At 24 he has many years ahead of him, but with a hefty 67 million pounds price tag he will have a lot of expectations to live up to.

[BJT]

Season 9 – Mid Season

The first half of the season couldn’t have gone much better for Moss’ troops in the league. Securing 51 points after 19 games Milan are 4 points better off than rivals Inter, and currently are 31 games undefeated in the Serie A.

There has been a great fluidity going forward. New striker Bjelanovic has settled in well and helping to bring the best out of the two wide men in attack. It has been a fairly injury free ride, with only fringe players tending to suffer from the longer duration injuries.

Romagnoli and Pavard have been rocks at the back this year, averaging 7.60+. World class players Alena and Brekalo are performing to their abilities. Whereas Silva was the main goal-getter in previous seasons, all the goals are being shared amongst the 3 forwards this season.

The Champions League did however end up being a tough group to get out of. Milan needed to avoid an away defeat at Dortmund to take second spot. An excellent away performance gave Moss’ side all 3 points to put them into the knockout stages. Real Madrid took top spot.

There’s still a lot of football to be played this year, but the season as things stand looks promising and a challenge to be led on all fronts.

[BJT]

Season 9 – History Beckons…

Moss’ ninth season at the Rossoneri is finally coming towards the home straight. After heading into the New Year competing on all fronts, his squad assembled is still on course for the historic treble which he has yet to come close to achieving. Only Moss’ idol Jose Mourinho has achieved this feat at rivals inter, and remains the only side to have completed this swoop from Italy.

Revenge was sweet in the Champions League Quarters where City knocked out Milan last year. Taking the home leg 7-2 has left a tie against FC Porto. The winners will more than likely face PSG after they won their first leg Semi Final tie against Real Madrid 3-0.

The Coppa Italia see’s Moss’ Milan square up against Palermo. This will be no easy game if they bring their A-Game to the final. Moss will be hoping his players perform to their maximum on the day.

But next up in the Serie A is a home match against Inter. With a 7 point gap a only four games remaining, a victory will see Milan take the Scudetto and winning it a historic eight times in succession.

Moss is also in-line to break the 100 points barrier. It does however seems a little out of reach to surpass the 102 points Juventus achieved in the 2013/14 season. But if Milan were to win all four games they would finish the year on 103.

It promises to be an exciting end of the season finish for the Milan faithful, with all hoping it won’t end up being a season of bitter disappointment when being in such a good position and only potentially seven games left to see out.

[BJT]

Season 9 – History Made

Super Coppa Italia – Lost (pens)

Serie A – Winners

Coppa Italia – Winners

ECL – Winners

After a 1-0 home defeat by Lazio during the turn of the year, this ended up being Milan’s only defeat all season in the Serie A. The team’s response, to win 14 games in the league on the bounce, with the title wrapped up in the perfect fashion in front of the home supporters whilst the Inter fans, staff, and players were forced to watch the celebratory moments.

A whole host of records were broken this season. It’s going to be a long time before a season will end up being as successful as this one.

-Milan’s previous record number of wins in a season stood at 30, now broken at 33 wins.

-Most points in a Serie A season was 102 held by Juventus back in 2013/14, now at 103.

-First treble of the Serie A, Coppa Italia, and ECL for Milan, and only the second ever time an Italian club has achieved this.

Coppa Italia (Milan 3 – 0 Palermo)

It was a dominant performance from Moss’ outfit in possession, quality chances, and goals scored. An early strike from forward Brekalo after some intricate Milan play settled any nerves immediately, and Milan never looked back.

Pavard double the lead early on in the second half with a bullet header from a corner flung into the box, with Milan’s third and final goal at the end of the game a similar situation, but it was Martinez the Argentine on hand to poach and take the plaudits.

Palermo never really threatened the Milan goal all game, and were restricted to shots of less than 50/50 chances.

Champions League (Milan 2 – 0 PSG)

With world-class midfielder Pellegrini out, in stepped Wendel with an important job in helping Milan control the game in midfield.

This was a tight affair, but Milan had the edge in all aspects of the game and so had that element of control throughout. Keeping the ball better than their opponents, all three of the games clear cut chances fell the way of the Rossoneri, successfully restricting PSG to harmless shots at the Donnarumma goal

It was to be the moment for new signing and striker Bjelanovic to rubber stamp his claim of being a striker of top quality that could take the place of club legend Silva. Despite his big game nerves, he notched a double in the second half to hand Moss the treble.

The first came from a well drilled Milan set-piece corner routine, with the 186m in height man nodding in passed the helpless Maurel in the PSG goal.

The second coming around 15 minutes later, saw PSG gift possession away with Traore playing a through ball beating the defensive line and Bjelanovic coolly slotting the ball to the side of the PSG keeper. Moss had been training him hard to work on his finishing, and he didn’t disappoint the Milan boss.

End of Season Thoughts

It was clear to see how Milan had the best defensive record and most clean sheets in the league this year. Keeping the ball well, whilst having an experienced back line whom all knew exactly what they were doing were very hard for teams to break down - with then world class Goalkeeper Donnarumma to get the better of.

And when they did breach the line, by creating the most chances of all sides this year, Milan more often than not could turn around any deficit and get a result from the game. Set pieces were also a strong point. This all served Moss’ side well and was shown by at season’s end winning all three major trophies.

On the negative side of things, Moss was unable to keep Wendel happy who has decided to leave on a free. He played an important fill-in role in the Champions League final, proving he is a quality player and will not be easy to replace, especially at a free cost.

Matthias Ginter and Emerson have also decided to leave. Milan will need to identify some defensive reinforcements for the next season coming.

The plus side was around a 69 million pounds budget had been predicted to be available for when the window re-opens. But it remains to be seen whether Moss will be the man to spend this money, as he has decided to think his position after achieving a success that will not be easy to repeat.

We all know keeping players motivated is not an easy task, especially after having such a good season.

Both the Chelsea and Man City jobs are currently vacant. But it is believed as a premiership club, Arsenal hold the most appeal. They haven’t won the premier league in 22 years, and also Liverpool who haven’t won the title in 36 years.

With Spain, Valencia haven’t won La Liga in 22 years. Athletico Madrid also interest Moss. Although they have had a recent success, Real Madrid generally keep having the better of their neighbours both in the league and Champions League.

With that said, Moss may stay on at Milan for one more season. He likes the idea of having spent a decade at the club, a sign of the loyalty he shows to his board, players, and staff.

Whichever route he chooses, he now has a 5 star-reputation of an exceptional status so he’ll be a contender for most jobs about.