In 1899 (the year Milan was founded), children were born who, despite being hastily educated, were called to the front in 1917 to revive the fortunes of Italy, which came out with broken bones after the battle of Caporetto. The ‘boys of’ 99 ‘- as they were called – were decisive, thanks also to the help of veterans, for the results of the First World War. We are certainly not talking about an international conflict, but Pioli’s team today was rich in players born in ’99 (plus a 2000) and, together with the men with the most experience, they managed to bring home the first European battle: Donnarumma, Dalot, Tonali, Brahim Diaz, Leao, Saelemaekers and Hauge together with Kjaer and Ibrahimovic.
THE PERFECT WATCH – The Rossoneri therefore begin the European campaign with a victory, which came with some risk that occurred in the final game, coinciding with the simultaneous exits of two reference points such as Zlatan and Kessie. At Pioli’s Milan, however, at this moment everything runs perfectly, almost as if it were a watch built with all the gears that fit together precisely. It happens, therefore, that the technician inserts Krunic from the first minute and the Bosnian repays him with the first absolute goal in Milan and with an excellent performance, especially in the first part of the game. It happens that Calhanoglu gets hurt in training and Brahim Diaz, his replacement, scores a decisive goal after a beautiful play. It happens that Bennacer – who took the place of a tarnished Tonali – enters Saelemaekers and Hauge and these three pack up the splendid marking of the third Rossoneri goal. Waiting to recover Rebic and Calhanoglu, therefore, Milan are at full points in the league, they have won the groups of the Europa League and have also brought home the first 3 points in the group. And on Monday at the San Siro comes the direct clash with Roma, also a winner on their international debut.
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