Former AC Milan coach Arrigo Sacchi has cautioned the Italian side that facing Liverpool will be a formidable challenge, despite the Reds’ recent surprise loss under new coach Arne Slot.
Sacchi highlighted that while Liverpool were unexpectedly defeated by Nottingham Forest at Anfield, they remain a very strong team. It was a surprisingly toothless display from the Reds but they have the chance to use their favourite tournament to refind the spark they showed in the opening three games.
Slot, who took over from Jurgen Klopp in the summer after the German manager’s departure, has already shown promising results, including dominant victories against Ipswich, Brentford, and Manchester United.
Mohamed Salah. Credit: Imago Images
Sacchi pointed out in his column for La Gazzetta dello Sport that Liverpool created multiple clear chances before conceding against Forest.
He emphasised that their performance should not be mistaken as a sign of weakness, noting that the team is still adjusting to Slot’s system.
He wrote: “I saw Liverpool against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. It is true that they lost at Anfield, but it is also true that before conceding the goal they had at least three clear chances to take the lead.
“This is to say that it is not a team in disarray or in crisis. If anything, it is right to underline that, after the Jurgen Klopp era, now they need time to metabolise the ideas of the new coach Slot. In terms of quality, however, the English side are very strong and also have considerable physical energy.”
Ryan Gravenberch. Credit: Imago Images
Sacchi is right in saying Liverpool still possess significant physical and technical quality, making them a dangerous opponent for Milan in their upcoming Champions League clash.
While none of Liverpool’s deadly attackers were able to make the difference on Saturday, playing against another attacking team in Milan may give them the space to work their magic in.
Milan’s challenge against Liverpool
Sacchi also addressed Milan’s performance, particularly focusing on the tactical adjustments they need to make for their Champions League encounter with Liverpool.
Tammy Abraham. Credit: Imago Images
He praised Milan’s recent improvement in their game against Venezia but warned that the level of opposition they will face in Liverpool is far more formidable.
Sacchi expressed curiosity about how Milan will handle Liverpool’s intensity, especially given the physicality and energy that Slot’s team brings to the pitch.
Sacchi wrote: “I am curious to see how Fonseca’s Milan will face the Reds. Against Venezia the Rossoneri improved, but you always have to take into account the value of the opponent who was not exceptional. I think it is a very important match, both for Milan and for Liverpool, and also open.
One key player Sacchi highlighted was Rafael Leao, urging him to be more engaged throughout the match.
Sacchi stressed that in high-level European competitions, Leao cannot afford to isolate himself from the game.
By way of finishing his commentary, Sacchi wrote: “Let’s see if Leao understands what needs to be done in European football, and if he avoids taking breaks during the match. In the Champions League you can’t isolate yourself on the wing, as sometimes happens to him.
“You always have to be in the action, connected with your teammates, active in the ball area. If you leave the domination of the game to the opponents, in international matches it’s painful, because everyone has quality players who can find the winning idea.”
Rafael Leao. Credit: Imago Images
Both Milan and Liverpool have much to prove in their upcoming Champions League match, and Sacchi believes the outcome is open.
However, his warnings underline that Milan must approach the game with full concentration and tactical discipline if they hope to overcome the formidable challenge that Liverpool presents.
