RESPONSE FROM THE YOUNGSTERS IN COLOGNE
Focus
The result is never the most important thing in a friendly. What matters is team spirit after a long break, fitness and performances of the new boys (relatively): from Adli to Pobega. Giroud stole the show with a brace but Gabbia's big performance didn't go unnoticed.
Matteo knows what it means to take your chance, both this summer and in general: he made ten competitive appearances in all competitions last season and finished the campaign with the first trophy in his career. He had a hand in the Scudetto-winning campaign, playing in wins over Roma and Venezia. When the Rossoneri were struck with an injury crisis, Gabbia was there, no more so than in the 2-0 victory over Genoa in April - the start of the final title charge.
In Cologne, in the first friendly of 2022/23, Stefano Pioli gave minutes to 21 players. They were all switched out (or on), save for one: our number 46, who started and played well until the final whistle. Furthermore, he pulled on the captain's armband after Rebić came off. With the Rossoneri still not at full strength, this is a show of strength to build on. Kalulu knows a thing or two about this, as he was brilliant himself at the RheinEnergieStadion against Köln.
On the topic of youngsters, a few other lads got minutes in the Telekom Cup. For many of them, it will be the chance to see them at work, for them to help the team and show what they can do.
The PUMA AC Milan Home Kit for the 2022/23 season is available: get yours now!
