As I sit down to analyze AC Milan's current Serie A campaign, I can't help but feel this season represents something special in the making. Having followed Italian football for over fifteen years, I've witnessed numerous championship runs, but there's something particularly compelling about how Stefano Pioli's squad is navigating this season's challenges. The job, however, won't be easy - and that's precisely what makes their journey worth examining.
When we look at Milan's performance through the first 28 matches of the season, the numbers tell an interesting story. The Rossoneri have secured 19 victories, played to 6 draws, and suffered only 3 defeats, accumulating 63 points in the process. What stands out to me isn't just the points tally but how they've achieved these results. I've noticed a distinct pattern in their approach - they've become masters of grinding out results even when not playing their best football. There were matches where they looked downright average for 70 minutes yet somehow found ways to secure three points. That ability to win ugly, as we say in football circles, often separates champions from mere contenders.
The tactical evolution under Pioli has been fascinating to watch. Early in the season, I had my doubts about their defensive stability, particularly after conceding 12 goals in their first 10 matches. But watching them develop throughout the campaign, I've seen remarkable improvement in their defensive organization. What impresses me most is how they've adapted their pressing triggers - they're now much smarter about when to commit players forward and when to maintain defensive shape. This tactical maturity didn't happen overnight; it emerged through what appeared to be careful analysis and adjustment from the coaching staff. The job, however, won't be easy when facing opponents who sit deep and defend in numbers, but Milan have shown they can break down these defensive blocks with patient buildup and creative solutions in the final third.
Speaking of creativity, Rafael Leão's development has been nothing short of spectacular. From my perspective, he's transformed from a raw talent into a genuinely world-class performer. His statistics this season - 14 goals and 9 assists across all competitions - only tell part of the story. What the numbers don't capture is how he's become more consistent in his decision-making and defensive contributions. I remember watching him two seasons ago and thinking he had all the tools but lacked the final product. Now, he's delivering week in and week out, becoming the difference-maker in tight matches. His partnership with Olivier Giroud has produced 18 combined goals this season, showcasing a chemistry that I believe ranks among the best in European football.
The midfield engine room deserves special mention. Watching Ismaël Bennacer and Sandro Tonali develop their partnership has been one of my personal highlights this season. Their complementary skills - Bennacer's technical proficiency and Tonali's tactical intelligence - have given Milan a foundation that few teams can match. The statistics support this observation: Milan have won 58% of their midfield battles this season, a significant improvement from last campaign's 49%. What I find particularly impressive is how they've managed to maintain this level despite facing intense pressing from opponents. The job, however, won't be easy when you're facing teams that specifically target your midfield, but these two have shown they can handle the pressure.
Financial constraints have forced Milan to be creative in the transfer market, and I must admit I've been pleasantly surprised by their recruitment strategy. The acquisition of players like Fikayo Tomori for €28.5 million and the shrewd signing of Mike Maignan to replace Gianluigi Donnarumma demonstrate excellent market intelligence. What many fans might not realize is how these decisions reflect a broader strategy of building sustainable success rather than chasing quick fixes. From my analysis of their financial reports and transfer activities, Milan have reduced their wage bill by approximately 18% while improving squad depth - an achievement that deserves more recognition than it typically receives.
The mental resilience shown by this squad cannot be overstated. I've lost count of how many times they've responded to setbacks with immediate positive results. After their disappointing Champions League exit, they bounced back with four consecutive league victories, scoring 9 goals while conceding only 2. This ability to maintain focus through adversity speaks volumes about the leadership within the squad and the psychological work being done behind the scenes. The job, however, won't be easy when dealing with the pressure of a title race, but Milan have demonstrated they possess the mental fortitude required.
Looking at their remaining fixtures, I'm particularly intrigued by how they'll handle the final stretch. The match against Napoli at the San Siro could very well decide the title, in my opinion. Historical data shows Milan have won 42% of their decisive matches in May over the past decade, but this team feels different. They've shown they can win important matches away from home, securing 7 away victories this season compared to just 4 at the same point last campaign. This improvement in their traveling form might prove crucial in the final weeks.
What truly sets this Milan team apart, from my perspective, is their collective spirit. Having observed numerous championship-winning sides throughout Europe, I can confidently say that this Milan squad possesses that intangible quality that transforms good teams into great ones. They play for each other, they fight for every ball, and they've maintained this intensity throughout what has been an incredibly demanding season. The job, however, won't be easy as they approach the finish line, but something tells me this group has what it takes to see it through. Their journey this season represents more than just potential silverware - it symbolizes the return of a footballing giant to its rightful place among Europe's elite. As someone who's followed their ups and downs over the years, watching this resurgence has been genuinely rewarding, and I believe we're witnessing the beginning of something special at the San Siro.