Milan Player Ratings vs Pisa: Newcomer Spares Rossoneri Blushes

Milan dropped two huge points in a disappointing 2-2 draw against Pisa in the first Serie A meeting between the sides since 1991. Massimiliano Allegri’s side squandered a glorious opportunity to, at least temporarily, extend their lead at the summit to four points.

The stage seemed set for Milan’s routine victory when Rafael Leao’s cross fortuitously found its way into the net. Milan had Pisa on the ropes after netting a seventh-minute opener, yet they unfathomably settled for a narrow lead. Despite enjoying 73% possession in the first half, they failed to create a single scoring chance.

Alberto Gilardino’s side made Milan pay for being complacent as Juan Cuadrado converted a penalty on the hour mark to draw the visitors level. Despite showing more intention in the final third after conceding a cheap spot-kick, the Rossoneri unexpectedly fell a goal behind in the 86th minute. Ebenezer Akinsanmiro’s long ball somehow found M’Bala Nzola, who beat Mike Maignan from point-blank range.

However, Zachary Athekame’s long-range screamer spared Milan’s blushes in stoppage time. Milan nearly turned the game around in the dying moments, but Alexis Saelemaekers fluffed his lines after breezing past several Pisa defenders. Without further ado, let’s look at our player ratings.

Milan (3-5-2)

Mike Maignan – 3/10

Though his defense let him down, the fact remains that the French goalkeeper failed to make a save tonight, conceding from both shots on target.

Koni De Winter – 4/10

The former Genoa defender endured a woeful first Serie A start in the Milan shirt, conceding a reckless penalty. There was no need to keep his arm there.

Matteo Gabbia – 6/10

After several rock-solid performances, the Rossoneri academy graduate flopped in a crucial situation, leading to Pisa’s second. He nearly atoned for that mistake, only for Adrian Semper to thwart his close-range header.

Strahinja Pavlovic – 7/10

Unlike his defensive colleagues, the towering center-back didn’t put his foot wrong this evening. Furthermore, he showed plenty of confidence in Milan’s attacking moves.

Davide Bartesaghi – 6/10

The young left-back was too passive at times, especially when pushing forward, often opting for the safer option instead of taking on his marker. However, he remained disciplined defensively.

Samuele Ricci – 7/10

Full of energy and ambition, the Italian midfielder worked his socks off, covering every blade of grass and helping Milan maintain control in the center of the park. His pressing and quick passing kept Pisa pinned back for long spells.

Luka Modric – 9/10

This guy is on another level. Everything he touches turns to gold. He picked up a late assist to crown another remarkable showing. An absolute class!

Youssouf Fofana – 7/10

The Frenchman showcased some brilliant pieces of skill throughout the game, including a superb backheel pass to set up Leao one-on-one with Semper.

Alexis Saelemaekers – 6/10

Despite showing flashes of outstanding technique, the Belgian’s decision-making let him down when it mattered most, as he chose to shoot when his two teammates were in a much better position.

Rafael Leao – 8/10

Lackadaisical at times, the Portuguese broke the deadlock after only seven minutes but failed to build on that early momentum.

Santiago Gimenez – 3/10

Perhaps it’s time to bench the Mexican striker. His barren run in front of goal continues, and his overall contribution to the team’s build-up play was minimal at best.

Substitutes

Zachary Athekame – 7/10

Christopher Nkunku – 5/10