AC Milan still hold onto 3rd place in the Serie A despite losing 1-0 to fierce rivals Genoa at the Stadio Luigi Ferraris yesterday. The Rossoneri were lucky that their nearest challenger Sampdoria played out a 1-1 draw with Palermo at the Renzo Barbera stadium to keep them 3 points clear in 3rd place with 1 game left to end the season.
This only makes it harder for Milan as they now have to win next weekend’s game against Juventus at the San Siro if they are to keep their pride intact. Milan’s Rookie coach Leonardo has been an integral part of their success this season however, a falling out with club president and owner Silvio Berlusconi means that next weekend’s game against the Bianconeri will be his last in charge. Former Milan great Marco Van Basten has been tipped to take over as coach although nothing has been made official yet.
I honestly thought that Milan would win some silverware this season and i know i speak for a majority of the club’s fans when i say that they are losing their status as a competitive club. Even Ronaldinho’s ingenuity has not been enough to turn their fortunes around. After providing brilliant displays to keep his side in the title hunt, Milan has fizzled out these last few weeks to leave them battling for a spot to represent the nation in top flight European football next season.
Moreover, the future of a number of their stars hangs in the balance. Brazilian play maker Ronaldinho is yet to sign a new contract and club veteran Filipo “Super Pipo” Inzaghi is determined to renew his contract in spite of fan protests. This has not gone down well with a majority of die hard fans who think that his contract renewal will deny younger stars like Ghanaian striker Dominic Adiyiah the opportunity to sharpen his skills. Although grateful for his contribution to Milan, many think that ‘Pipo’ is past his prime.
Milan definitely have to win their last fixture against Juventus next Sunday to keep their pride and end the season on a positive note.
Photo credit: from Franky T @ acmilanblog.net
