Milan flying high with Allegri and Ibra
Reuters - Sunday 12 December 2010, 16:31
MILAN - Zlatan Ibrahimovic has grabbed
most of the plaudits for AC Milan's Serie A resurgence but quiet
coach Massimiliano Allegri again showed his tactical nous in
Sunday's 3-0 win at Bologna and deserves equal praise.
Goals from close-season signings Kevin Prince Boateng,
Robinho and Ibrahimovic made sure leaders Milan are guaranteed
to finish the year at least joint-top with next weekend's home
game with AS Roma their final match before the winter break.
"If everyone carries on doing well we'll definitely be
successful and we are aiming to win every trophy possible," said
former Inter Milan forward Ibrahimovic, in cracking form back in
Serie A following a season in Barcelona.
"But there are a lot of games left so let's talk about the
scudetto a bit later," he told Sky Sports after even Bologna
fans applauded his performance.
Despite the giant Swede's caution, Milan are big favourites
for their first Italian title since 2004 and the decision to
appoint little-known former Cagliari coach Allegri to replace
Leonardo in the close season looks an inspired move.
The increasingly slow Ronaldinho was left on the bench again
as Allegri continues to prefer Robinho's pace and the ability of
Boateng to break into the box from deep, qualities Milan have
lacked in recent seasons.
Midfielder Andrea Pirlo, for years trapped pinging 30-metre
balls from the half-way line under Leonardo and previous coach
Carlo Ancelotti, has also been forced further forward by Allegri
and set up Ibrahimovic's goal.
"Massimo Ambrosini can cover the role in front of the
defence. Andrea has done well and has confidence in this new
role," Allegri said.
"It gives us better quality when attacking."
Milan owner and Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi
reduced club spending during the global economic crisis but his
outlay this term and the decision to trust in the shrewd Allegri
rather than going for a big name manager are paying off.
"Milan are the toughest side we have met so far," Bologna
coach Alberto Malesani said.
Berlusconi, who faces confidence votes in parliament on
Tuesday that could sink his government, at least has Milan to
smile about as Inter Milan's five-year grip on the title looks
increasingly likely to end.