Lazio vs. AC Milan: 5 Things We Learned
A lackluster performance from two teams that have underperformed this season would summarize the 1-1 draw between Lazio and Milan accurately.
Both teams were uninspired and unimaginative and gave fans little to cheer about in what has been a depressing season for both.
It remains to be seen what happens with Clarence Seedorf, as there were whispers about a possible sacking if a positive result was not reached against the Biancocelesti.
Here are five things we learned from this Serie A match:
Adel Taarabt's Absence Is Incredibly Confusing
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Adel Taarabt has once again not been used in a match. Ever since being yanked at halftime during theย second leg of theย Milan vs. Atletico Madridย Champions League match, he has gone missing at Milan.
It makes even less sense considering how influential he had been when he played, so it seems that something possibly happened behind closed doors that got the Moroccan in trouble with Seedorf.
Milan Should Stick with Seedorf
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According to Mark Doyle of Goal.com, Milan players have been supportive ofย Seedorf, who has only had a few months to integrate himself as a coach for the first time in his career.
Seedorf's vaunted 4-2-3-1 has disappeared, and it has now been replaced by a more Massimiliano Allegri-esque 4-3-1-2 formation that relies on defensive-minded midfielders and less creativeness upfront.
Whether or not Seedorf is confused by what tactical scheme works better with his squad or if he's been forced to change the module is unknown.
Either way, it would be nonsensical to get rid of Seedorf before the summer, and he deserves more time to truly create a squad that mirrors his vision.
Balotelli in Hot Water
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Only a few weeks after being ferociously attacked by the media after Milan's Champions League exit, Mario Balotelli has been punished for a few indifferent displays.
When his team needed him most, he disappeared. Against Lazio, Giampaolo Pazzini took his place from the opening whistle. Balotelli was subbed in shortly after the start of the second half for an even more useless Keisuke Honda.
It'll be interesting to see how Seedorf deals with the Balotelli dilemma with his job in jeopardy. What's clear is that the drama around Milan hasn't been as prevalent in a long time.
Lazio Using Wasted Season to Focus on Youth
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Lazio are five points out of the European zone and have used a disappointing season to focus on some of the most promising youths they have in their squad.
Against Milan, the highly promising duo of Keita Balde and Brayan Perea were used upfront, with both figuring to have a future with the capital club.
The fans continue to protest the club's lack of ambition, but they must applaud some of the scouting work that found gems like Keita Balde for a meager price.
Goodbye, Europe
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Stick a nail in Milan's metaphorical European coffin.
There's no chance that the Rossoneri will get into the Europa League now.
Perhaps it's a blessing in disguise, as playing less games next season could work out in a way similar to how it did for Roma, which are fully focused on domestic action and have comfortably secured a Champions League spot.
All Milan need to do now is to convince the fans that there is a clear project. Building from the youth is by far the best way to go, as the club knows it cannot compete financially with some of Europe's other powers.ย
