AC Milan coach Paulo Fonseca stated on Friday, ahead of their Serie A clash with Empoli, that his team had displayed numerous weaknesses in their last two matches and must find the right balance between defense and attack.
Milan struggled offensively but showed defensive solidity in their goalless draw with Juventus last weekend. However, the scenario reversed midweek in their 3-2 victory over Slovan Bratislava in the UEFA Champions League, where they conceded twice and faced intense pressure from their opponents late in the match.
Speaking to reporters, Fonseca said: “Against Juventus, we were more organized; against Slovan, we excelled in offensive transitions. It feels like we improve in one area, but other problems emerge. Winning doesn’t mean everything is fine—we must address the issues. The team reacted positively when we worked on solving problems, and we’ll continue that process.”
Milan has only one win in their last four Serie A matches and currently sits seventh in the standings with 19 points from 12 matches, trailing leaders Napoli by 10 points, though Napoli has played one more match.
Facing Empoli at San Siro, a team Milan defeated both home and away last season, could provide a chance to close the gap with Napoli and regain momentum.
Fonseca remarked: “Dominating in Italy is never easy, and it won’t be against Empoli either. We need to strike a balance—creating chances while securing our defense. In Bratislava, we failed to control the match after going 1-0 up, conceding an equalizer that shifted momentum.”
Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana, who is one yellow card away from suspension, could miss next week’s match against second-place Atalanta. On whether Fofana might be rested as a precaution, Fonseca said: “I can’t afford to rest him. Tomorrow’s game is the priority. I expect him to play smartly and avoid mistakes.”
