Ruben Amorim admits AC Milan players 'don't understand' pressing demands
Following a 2-2 draw with Celtic, Ruben Amorim addressed AC Milan's pressing struggles and confirmed that Francesco Camarda will stay with the squad this season.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0 / Author: nobbiwan
The dawn of the Ruben Amorim era at AC Milan has brought immediate tactical challenges. Following a 2-2 pre-season draw against Celtic in Glasgow, the Portuguese tactician admitted his squad is still struggling to adapt to his high-pressing defensive system.
Amorim noted that while the team is eager to change their identity, they are often caught between two stools—attempting to press high but leaving exploitable gaps. "The mentality of pressing for most of the game isn't fully understood by the team yet, but the idea is there," Amorim explained. He emphasized that the process of assimilating these concepts is ongoing as they aim to control games through sustained possession.
The lads tried to implement new ideas. We conceded precisely because of this, but I liked seeing a team that wants to change their identity a bit. Ruben Amorim
Despite the growing pains, the match provided a clear positive in 18-year-old Francesco Camarda. The young sensation, who scored twice in seven minutes to force the draw, has secured his place in the manager's plans. "Camarda will stay with us, no matter what," Amorim confirmed, putting an end to recent loan speculation.
The evening was marred slightly by a muscular injury to summer signing Mario Gila. While the defender was forced off early, Amorim offered a reassuring update, hoping the Spaniard will recover quickly ahead of the club's upcoming international tour.