Pandemic & Crisis

With an accelerating COVID-19 outbreak in northern regions of Italy many games have been postponed and the week 26 Milan – Genoa match is one game which is hoped will be played on May 13th. The virus is on the verge of becoming a pandemic and the status of many large gatherings, including football games, will remain in question for days and weeks to come.

The seemingly perpetual crisis at Milan is derailing the team itself too. This week Boban has spoken out about and against CEO Ivan Gazidis. Gazidis has apparently courted and agreed with Ralf Rangnick behind Boban and Maldini’s back and with the latter two’s job obviously at risk anger has simmered to the surface. It is clear that the two legends do and will have many fans behind them and Milan can not afford more changes and year zeros. Rangnick will represent a big departure from Milan’s past and culture. He may be effective at various rumoured capacities at the club but the FFP and other financial limitations will present obstacles for him and indeed for Boban/Maldini’s hopes of taking Milan back to the top. Many wish that Milan can spend big this summer to help Ibra – who seems likely to stay – and the rest of the team next season but it is more likely that reality will require more creative and smart transfers.

On the pitch Duarte remains the long injury. Krunic is likely to be out for a few more weeks but Kjaer and Donnarumma are very close to returns and could be available for the March 4th Coppa Italia semi final return at Juventus. Whether the match goes ahead – with or without local or traveling fans – is not certain yet. The first leg finished a very controversial 1-1 and with Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Samu Castillejo and Theo Hernandez all suspended for the second leg the game is close to unwinnable.