Player Ratings: AC Milan 5-1 Cagliari – Bennacer outstanding; Pulisic prolific

Bennacer (8 – MOTM): Finally, we got to see the ‘old Bennacer’. He had a somewhat average start to the game but after the goal, he was absolutely brilliant. It seems all he needed was that confidence boost, doing everything right when pressing as well as in possession. It was a great assist for Leao’s and he combined flawlessly with his teammates overall, getting stuck in when needed too.

Reijnders (7.5): He was back to his usual self with a lot of movement and the ability to open up space for his teammates. That in itself is extremely important for Milan, but he added to the party with a fantastic long-range strike. This is exactly what we need from him, the full package.

Musah (5): Unfortunately, while many players took the opportunity tonight, the American had a really hard time. He often found himself confused in possession, failing to make a decision quickly enough or just making the wrong one. He also lost his man on Cagliari’s only goal of the game, which was a fatal mistake. His work rate saves the rating a bit, though.

Chukwueze (6): He had a hand in the first goal, finding a good position inside the box, but he was rather anonymous aside from that. Still, it was certainly enough to get a pass here.

Giroud (5): Another game with a bunch of failed flicks and terrible hold-up play, losing many duels against the Cagliari defenders as well. We saw a clear difference after he left the pitch, even if that also was due to other subs.

Pulisic (7.5): A great display from the No.11, first involved in Bennacer’s goal and then bagging one himself after a well-timed run and a perfect finish. Before the game was over, he managed to take his goal tally up to 15 with another strike. He belongs on the right, that is for sure, and just misses out on an 8 here.

Substitutes

Leao (7.5): He entered the pitch with the right attitude and caused problems for Cagliari almost immediately. The pass for Pulisic was absolutely perfect and he did everything right when Bennacer put him 1v1 against the keeper. One goal, one assist in 45 minutes. Not too shabby!

Tomori (6): The Englishman wasn’t exactly forced to work overtime but did what was needed (and cannot be blamed for the goal).

Okafor (6.5): When playing in the centre, he got on the ball a few times (and did well) but it was only when he drifted out to the side that things started happening. It was a very nice cross for Pulisic, bagging an assist.

Hernandez (6): He technically got an assist, but that was all Reijnders. Having said that, the Frenchman was decent off the bench.

Pobega (N/A): We didn’t see enough to give him a rating, but nice to see him back!

The manager 

Pioli (6.5): Regardless of what we think about the starting XI, Milan did head into the half-time break with a lead and the stars were able to come on in a situation with less pressure. It paid off in the end, as almost everyone seemed to regain confidence.