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Who should captain AC Milan?

A quick look at some of the best candidates for the armband

AC Milan v CSU Craiova - UEFA Europa League Third Qualifying Round: Second Leg Photo by Emilio Andreoli/Getty Images

With a plethora of signings in the summer, Milan has strengthened their squad exceptionally well.

With impressive names like Bonucci and Biglia arriving at the club and bringing along their experience & leadership, the armband is up for grabs—who deserves it the most?


Leonardo Bonucci:

It is no secret that Bonucci is one of the biggest stars in the AC Milan locker-room. The Italian is a cornerstone for the Azzurri and has been the backbone of Juventus’ defence for nearly a decade. Not only is Bonucci one of the best defenders in the world, he is also a serial-winner and someone who can push the entire squad to achieve a winner’s mentality. The case is strong for the former Juventus man and despite being new, there are few who could do the job better than Leo.

FC Bayern v AC Milan - 2017 International Champions Cup China
Bonucci was Vice-Captain at Juventus

The only drawback with this decision is that Bonucci has not done enough with the Devil to earn that armband which is an opinion that is more moral than it is rational.

Lucas Biglia:

Another new signing and someone who has actually held the armband on a regular basis is Lucas Biglia. While Bonucci was the vice-captain at Juventus, Biglia has led Lazio as their midfield general with the armband and has been a leader in the truest sense.

The Argentine is expected to be a starter and as such, is a strong candidate for the armband in comparison to Montolivo who is expected to be used sparingly.

Empoli FC v SS Lazio - Serie A
Biglia was the Captain at Lazio

Once more, the decision of making Biglia brings with it the usual moral criticism for making a new player a locker-room figure but—just like before—it is only a virtuous dilemma which can be looked over for efficiency.

Ignazio Abate:

The right-back has spent a lot of time with the Rossoneri and is already a figure of responsibility on & off the pitch. The Italian has been a mainstay in the Milan back-line for nearly a decade and has proved his unwavering commitment and quality over the years.

In the absence of the perennially injured captain Montolivo, Abate took charge of the Devil and led them on the pitch with qualities befitting a captain. Despite slowing down in the past few seasons, Abate has done enough to remain in the discussion.

AC Milan v Juventus FC - 2016 Italian Super Cup
Abate captained Milan in their win over Juventus for the Supercoppa TIM in December last year.

The only hindrance here is that Abate is primed to be replaced by Andrea Conti, and Milan deserve a captain who will stay on the field and contribute on a regular basis.

Giacomo “Jack” Bonaventura:

There are few players who are as enigmatic in modern-day football as Jack Bonaventura.

The Italian ace is capable of playing across the midfield and on the wings. Bonaventura remains one of the few players from last season, capable of holding their own in light of the new arrivals. Bonaventura is one of the most underrated midfielders on the planet and continues to elude with his world-class performances.

Jack has seen the rough times with Milan and deserves to be rewarded with a role befitting his ability and character strength.

Juventus FC v AC Milan - TIM Cup
Bonaventura is a key figure in Vincenzo Montella’s side

Jack has the quality, mental fortitude and discipline to be a leader behind the scenes which is why he is my pick for being captain.


Conclusion:

Milan has gone through many changes and it is to be expected that a majority of the lineup will be composed of new arrivals.

In light of this, it is not possible to completely ignore the quality of new players and their ability to lead.

Milan needs more than one leader to lead its young and dynamic squad.

Verdict:

Captain—Giacomo “Jack” Bonaventura

Vice-Captain—Leonardo Bonucci

Vice-Captain—Ignazio Abate

Vice-Captain—Lucas Biglia

Poll

Who should captain AC Milan this season?

This poll is closed

  • 4%
    Riccardo Montolivo
    (119 votes)
  • 35%
    Leonardo Bonucci
    (942 votes)
  • 3%
    Lucas Biglia
    (89 votes)
  • 4%
    Ignazio Abate
    (130 votes)
  • 51%
    Giacomo Bonaventura
    (1358 votes)
2638 votes total Vote Now