Napoli vs. AC Milan: Player Ratings

Napoli staged a dramatic victory over AC Milan, coming back from 2-0 down to eventually win 3-2. Milan looked solid for most of the match but faded toward the end, unable to sustain waves of pressure from Napoli. Despite the loss, Milan can take comfort knowing that if they continue working hard, they can grow even stronger as the season progresses and grind out positive results. That being said let’s go right into our player ratings for Milan:

Gigi Donnarumma – 5.5

Not the strongest of showings from the young goalkeeper. Put unnecessary pressure on his defenders with his passing and should have done better on Zielinski’s second goal.

Davide Calabria – 4

Apart from his goal Calabria looked way out of his depth, failing to deal with Insigne and Mertens. He was caught out of position too many times throughout the match and switched off, allowing a hungry Mertens to tap in an easy goal.

Mateo Musacchio – 6.5

Not a bad game per say for the defender although his chemistry with Romagnoli still needs a lot of work. There were minor slip ups here and there but overall a solid game for the Argentine.

Alessio Romagnoli – 7

Had an excellent first half but could not do it all on his own in the 2^nd . Needs more playing time with either Musacchio or Caldara to form an intimidating CB partnership.

Ricardo Rodriguez – 6.5

A workmanlike performance from the Swiss international. Did relatively well going forward and had a solid game in defense.

Lucas Biglia - 2 (Flop of the Match)

Going by this performance, it looks like Biglia’s playing days are numbered. He was way too casual on the ball, leaving the midfield open for players like Zielinski to exploit. With the former Lazio captain not getting any younger it would appear his playing time should be given to someone else

Franck Kessie - 6

Started quietly but grew stronger as the game progressed. The Ivorian needs to quickly get back into his rugged best and this game should be a good jolt for the Ivorian.

Suso - 6.5

The Spaniard did the best he could given the circumstances and did show moments of his usual flair.

Giacomo Bonaventura - 8.5 (MOTM)

Opened Milan’s goal account with a spectacular volley and played like a man possessed in the first half. Bona was everywhere for Milan; helping Biglia out in the midfield as well as linking up nicely with Borini and Higuain. He eventually had to be substituted for an attacking option in Cutrone but Bonaventura covered himself well for this game.

Fabio Borini - 7

Punched above his weight and class but did an admirable job. Borini is as hardworking as they come and was awarded by setting up a brilliant aerial assist to Bonaventura for the first goal. Was substituted in the 70 min for Laxalt.

Gonzalo Higuain - 7.5

Endured a torrid time at his former home with a hostile crowd and a Napoli team that made it their aim to foul their former striker. Despite that, Higuain put in a strong showing, hustling and harrying the Napoli defense. Higuain looks to be the striker Milan so desperately needed, displaying excellent hold up play and putting defenses on their toes. Alas, he was not given much chances to bang the goals home.

Substitutes:

Bakayoko -5

Was an improvement to Biglia, but that’s not saying much. Looked lively for his time on the field although the young Frenchman needs to stay focused and be more aware of his positioning.

Laxalt - 6

Subbed on for Borini. Had a few decent runs up the left side. Could have done better in his defensive game. A hot and cold performance overall

Cutrone - NA

Came on late in the game to add more in attack for Milan

Gattuso - 6

More of the same for coach Gattuso. His Milan are a gritty side but they still lack a distinct identity. He needs to improve his players focus during matches (especially when we’re up 2-0!) It was also nice to see him go head to head with Ancelotti, a man he loves and respects dearly. Maybe in the return fixture he’ll best his former coach