The Top Three AC Milan Players in 2010

There are only two games remaining now and for Milan there is not much to play for other than to secure third place, which should not be too difficult. As this somewhat dramatic saga of a season nears its end, it is timely to reflect on what has come to pass and to summarize what has been observed.

For Milan this season we have seen a real contrast in displays from the players. There have been a number of inspirational displays and some rather disappointing ones too. We have also been pleasantly surprised by the contribution of some unheralded figures whilst also being highly disappointed with the performances of some of the more heralded figures.

Looking back and reviewing their individual contributions, a select list has been compiled that ranks the three best players for Milan this season. If you beg to differ with what is presented, I encourage you to write a comment detailing the three players you would have chosen. But here is the order according to AC Milan Blog.

3. Alexandre Pato

There is no denying the fact that when Pato is fit and playing, Milan are a different side. The young Brazilian has simply been exceptional for Milan in front of goal, showing again this season what a clinical finisher he really is. Easily one of his finest attributes, Pato has not only displayed some lethal finishing this term but also a confidence to run at defenders and successfully beat them.

Undoubtedly, the best moment for Milan came in that famous 3-2 victory over Real Madrid at the Bernabeu. And it was Pato who played a key role in helping Milan to an important victory as the Milan No. 7 coolly slotted home one goal before volleying home his second and Milan’s third. It was a splendid evening which for many officially marked the arrival of Pato on the big stage.

In all competitions, Pato has scored 15 goals for the Rossoneri, a tally he may add to yet as he returns to action this weekend. In Serie A alone, Pato has scored an impressive 12 goals in just 15 starting appearances.

Despite some wonderful displays this season and a respectable goal tally, Pato has also shown that there are parts of his game that need work, his passing is an example. In addition, Pato’s consistency has not always been the best throughout the season. Injuries have also limited his effect.

2. Ronaldinho

Put simply, if Ronaldinho did not rediscover some of that old magic of his, then Milan’s season would have been disastrous. Indeed, many predicted that it would be, unless Ronaldinho did not find some form.

The early signs were not good. Ronaldinho was struggling and so was Milan. Then Leo came up with a masterstroke, changing Milan’s system of play to accommodate the Brazilian in the best possible way. All of a sudden, the former World Player of the Year started to find some form again and in no coincidence, Milan’s form improved dramatically.

Ronaldinho has quite simply been the Milan attack this season. The former Barcelona ace has contributed 13 goals this season whilst providing 16 assists. At times the Brazilian has been phenomenal and at other times, he has gone missing, especially in the big games.

The high point for Ronaldinho was his hat-trick against Siena in January. It was a true master class by the R80 and it was a display that rolled back the years.

What has let Ronaldinho down this season has been his consistency, or lack of, and it is mainly for this reason that he comes in at No. 2. In addition, Ronaldinho’s team work has been poor. Only on the rare occasion have we seen him track back and help out in defense. A little more consistency and a little more professionalism and he could have been Milan’s No. 1.

1. Alessandro Nesta

He is consistent. He is world class. He is a natural leader. He is a team player. Nesta is without doubt Milan’s most valuable player this season. With Nesta, Milan are a championship-winning side. Without Nesta, Milan are not as has been proven in recent weeks.

It is no coincidence that when Nesta was ruled out injured before that horrific night in Manchester, Milan’s season took a nose dive. He is simply a colossus at the back and on his day is still the best defender in the world.

Nesta’s professionalism and ability to perform consistently at the highest level has been simply unmatched by any other Milan player. If only he managed to stay fit, one wonders what may have been for Milan this season.

Nonetheless, it was great to see so much of him this season having seen far too little of him in recent seasons. Milan will hope he can stay relatively fit again during next season as he will be once again vital to the Rossoneri cause.