Mazzara: Empoli performance must become ‘ordinary’ – Fonseca’s Milan shaping up

Paulo Fonseca has faced criticism throughout the season due to his AC Milan set-up, but with a 3-0 win against Empoli, things are looking slightly better. 

There have often been questions about Fonseca’s decisions this season, and it has seemed like he has prioritised his own style over the needs of the team on occasions – a trend which has been noticed more across football.

Confusingly, some coaches prefer to attempt to mould the teams into their ideas, rather than working together to form a joint system that works for all parties, something which it could be argued Fonseca has done in the early stages of his tenure.

Against Empoli though, a more complete Milan was seen, causing Pietro Mazzara to analyse the victory and what it must mean going forward.

The editorial piece starts by stating the facts, wins like this weekend’s must be ordinary – a dominant performance at San Siro where the scoreline matches.

Above all, it is what the fans ask for, a display that deserves to be attached to the Rossoneri, and partnering with this, a display that matches Fonseca’s promise of dominant football.

How did this come to be, though? Well, Mazzara believes it to be simple. The addition of an extra midfielder made everything easier and more balanced, due to the roles being more appropriately shared.

As a result of the change, the players seemed more comfortable in the game, and there was more compactness of confidence in the defence – which has been one of the big issues of the season. It is a performance that Mazzara states needs to become the ‘ordinary’, and if Fonseca relies on his new system, with his nuances tied in, then perhaps this Diavolo will grow.