Capello: Milan Too Dependent on Hernández and Leão

Former AC Milan coach Fabio Capello has shared sharp criticism of the team’s current strategy following their 2-0 loss to Juventus in Serie A. Capello, known for his direct analysis, highlighted the Rossoneri’s overdependence on left-sided players Theo Hernández and Rafael Leão, raising concerns about the team’s tactical predictability.

Speaking to Italian media, Capello remarked, 'Milan looked unattractive and lacking in technical quality.' He elaborated on the challenges the team faced against Juventus, particularly in handling their opponent’s high pressing game. 'In the first half, Milan managed to create a few chances when building from the back, but they failed to convert those opportunities. The second half was a disaster; their structure fell apart entirely,' he said.

Reliance on Key Players: Capello’s main concern is Milan’s heavy reliance on their left flank, specifically on the performances of Hernández and Leão. He explained, 'If Theo and Leão can’t make an impact, Milan loses its direction completely.' Capello also noted that players like Fikayo Tomori and Tijjani Reijnders struggled under Juventus’s relentless pressure, while others contributed minimally. 'The rest? They’re not even worth mentioning,' he added.

With this loss, Milan has now suffered five defeats in Serie A, casting doubt on their ability to secure a Champions League spot next season. Opponents have clearly identified their overreliance on the left side, exploiting this weakness by neutralizing Hernández and Leão. Capello emphasized that such predictability could have long-term consequences if left unaddressed.

Capello's Warning: Despite his criticism, Capello urged fans and the team not to lose hope. He stated, 'It’s too early to give up on the season. We still don’t know how many Serie A teams will qualify for Europe next year. The team has a new coach, Sergio Conceição, who deserves more time to make an impact.'

Capello warned, however, that if Milan continues to play as they did in Turin, their hopes for a top-four finish will remain slim. He also called for tactical adjustments and squad reinforcement to diversify their attacking options and reduce their dependence on specific players.

As AC Milan navigates the remainder of the season, addressing these challenges will be essential to reclaim their competitiveness in Serie A and Europe. A more balanced approach could help the Rossoneri unlock their full potential and avoid the pitfalls of tactical predictability.