Milan seems to have hit it right with Deulofeu / Image via fantagazzetta.com
Although a move to Serie A fallen giants AC Milan would, in some other circumstances, be considered a dream move for many, it was a career lifeline for Derard Deulofeu, the Everton outcast who could not gain footing under Ronald Koeman at Goodison.
The 22-year-old Spaniard was deemed too erratic in his performances, a tad inconsistent both physically and mentally, and generally a player who had used up all of his chances to prove his worth for the Toffees.
It might sound like a bit harsh judgement, but there is a big possibility that such a fallout in his Everton situation was exactly what Deulofeu needed to get his career back on track. At least that’s what we’re seeing at the moment as the former La Masia graduate is hitting the ground running with AC Milan.
Hit the ground running at Milan
Deulofeu has so far made five Serie A appearances for Rossoneri, but earned his debut for Milan only two days after sealing his loan move. Vincenzo Montella’s decision to have Deulofeu involved in the Coppa Italia quarterfinal match against Juventus was a clear message of intent from the Rossoneri boss.
The Spaniard got a taste of the Italian football in his team’s 2-1 defeat against mighty Juventus, before being handed his Serie A debut days after, getting on for injured Bonaventura in a 1-2 defeat against Udinese.
Deulofeu did not take too long to demonstrate a piece of his great potential as he assisted Mario Pasalic in Milan’s 1-0 away win over Bologna, when Rossoneri were reduced to nine men after both Paletta and Kucka got sent off. Former Barcelona and Everton men put in a tireless work to help his team win and was one of the most prominent performers with his great runs through the Bologna defences.
And as Milan struggled to get back to high-flying route we saw them soar through in the first part of the season, Gerrard Deulofeu seems to be that missing link for the team, a creative string to help them get back on track.
Naturally, it is far too early to make definite conclusions but his brilliant display against Fiorentina was more than enough of an evidence in the Spaniard’s favour.
First goal for Rossoneri
The 22-year-old ended the game as a scorer of the winning goal, but his contribution extended further beyond the first-half winner. Deulofeu rose to prominence with his commanding display which make him a leader on the pitch against Fiorentina. As Viola pressed hard and deep, it was Deulofeu who displayed commendable composure to lead the line upfront and try to break in front of Tatarustanu’s goal.
He will have to work on his finish – from the mental angle most of all – as he lacked confidence moments after scoring a goal for his side, but the first impressions are more than positive.
The player himself was pleased to see hard work pay off as he scored his first-ever Milan goal with a clever finish, which followed a mazy run through the field.
Having quickly established himself as one of the key men in Vincenzo Montella’s side, Gerard Deulofeu is expected to continue with strong performances to the benefit of both sides as the Spaniard searches his way back to prominence and Milan their place in European football next season.
AC Milan currently sit three points behind Lazio in sixth and four points behind Atalanta and Inter who are occupying the European slots.
Next up for AC Milan are Sassuolo away and Deulofeu is likely to be given an extended run in the first-team. Rossoneri are looking at 6/5 betting odds to emerge victorious and extend their unbeaten run to three consecutive matches.
Surely he can help them achieve it?
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