Milan’s trip to Napel ended in yet another disappointment. A 2-1 defeat against Napoli pressed rossoneri further down in the Serie A table and left their hope of qualifying to UEFA Champions League hanging by a thread. However, a moment in the match was beyond the result – when Santiago Gimenez got up to take a crucial penalty instead of Christian Pulisic.
With Milan 2-0 in 67th minuteA golden chance came when Theo Hernandez was fouled in the box. Considering Pulisic’s excellent record from the scene – has only missed a punishment in his career– Most expected that he would take responsibility. Instead the ball was handed over to GimenA player who had not done in over a month.
The result was disastrous. Mexican’s weak effort was conveniently rescued by Alex MeretRossoneri denies a lifeline. Just minutes later, Jovic’s wound Managed to pull one back, but it was too little, too late. The penalty show proved to be crucial and left fans and poundit both questioning: Why did Milan allow a struggling striker to take such an important kick when Pulisic was on the pitch?
What did Sergio Conceica say?
After the match, Milan Manager Sergio Concepticao was asked about the decision, and his answer left many scratched his head. “We have three main. Pulisic wanted to give confidence to his teammate who has not scored a few weeks“ Told the fertilization Dazn. “We know how it is. It’s not up to me to say something to the players, It is the three who decide based on how they feel. “
In other words, this was not a management decision. Instead, it was American himself who chose to let Gimenez take the penalty– a gesture aimed at increasing Mexican striker confidence.
The Portuguese boss framed this as a Signs of device within the team’s dressing roomBut the decision finally backfired. Gimenez confidence was clearly lowAnd the missed punishment only increased his fighters. At the same time, Milan’s narrow chances were evaporated to save a result.
See also
Who will lead Milan’s penalty service in Serie A and Champions League: Santiago Gimenez or Christian Pulisic?
Costly decision for milan
Milan fourth defeat in six league matches Leaves them ninth in serial afour points behind Fiorentina and nine points of fourth place Bologna. With Champions League qualification slides awayEvery point is important. The decision to Let an out-of-form striker take a penalty for points May turn out to be costly when the season ends.
Pulisic is still one of Milanos most reliable artistshave already scored 15 goals this season – including four penalties. But at this moment his generosity unfortunately cost Milan expensive. As Conceicao put it: “There is great frustration because we did not deserve this defeat.”
InvestigationShould Pulisic have taken more responsibility as Milan’s penalties?
Should Pulisic have taken more responsibility as Milan’s penalties?
