Journalist Sabatini praised Milan’s response in their impressive victory at Udine, highlighting Davide Bartesaghi’s performance after the defender moved ahead of Pervis Estupinan in the team’s pecking order.
Writing on social media, Sabatini said Milan had successfully negotiated a match that appeared to carry considerable risk. The concern was heightened by the team’s recent displays, including their Europa League game, as well as the number of absences in the Rossoneri squad.
Goncalo Ramos had also been doubtful before the match, but Sabatini felt Amorim’s side dealt with the circumstances particularly well.
“Milan managed to simplify a match that, on paper, carried significant risks, stemming from their recent performances, such as the Europa League game, and numerous absences within the Rossoneri squad,” he wrote. “Goncalo Ramos was also doubtful before the match. However, Amorim’s team responded exceptionally well.”
Sabatini singled out Bartesaghi, who had previously been behind Pervis Estupinan in the pecking order. The Italian was deployed in a role that is not completely natural to him, with greater emphasis on his attacking contribution, yet still produced what Sabatini described as a high-level display.
“Davide Bartesaghi finally moved up the pecking order, having previously been behind Pervis Estupinan,” Sabatini added. “The Italian delivered a high-level performance, and in a position that isn’t entirely his own, leaning more towards attack.”
Christian Pulisic was another player to receive praise, with Sabatini stressing that his contribution extended beyond scoring a goal.
“Pulisic also performed excellently, not just because of his goal,” he said.
The journalist also highlighted Luka Modric’s influence in midfield, describing the experienced player’s control of the game as evidence of the qualities associated with a champion.
“Modric controlled the game as brilliantly as ever, showcasing the demeanor of a true champion,” Sabatini wrote.
He concluded that Milan had rediscovered their competitive edge through the players who had helped restore that level during the previous year.
“Milan rediscovered themselves through the players who helped the team regain its competitiveness last year,” Sabatini said.
