Ruben Amorim's arrival at AC Milan has sparked excitement among fans, signaling a potential shift in the club's approach. His methods, as observed by La Gazzetta dello Sport, differ significantly from those of his predecessor, Massimiliano Allegri. Amorim's enthusiasm and desire to reconnect with the joy of coaching are evident in his interactions with players and his training sessions.
One notable aspect is his desire to be at the heart of the team, both figuratively and physically. During the first training session, he stood in the middle of the pitch, his old position as a player, instinctively looking for the ball and participating in rondo exercises with unmatched enthusiasm. This gesture symbolizes his genuine interest in engaging with the players and finding that fire within himself that Manchester United once took away.
Amorim's approach to building relationships with the players is unique. Unlike Allegri, who relied heavily on a large staff and only intervened at specific times, Amorim has a smaller staff and often interjects personally. He speaks to the team in English, as he is learning the language, and establishes a familiar yet direct and sincere relationship with the players. This approach is evident in his pre-training speech, where he emphasizes his availability and willingness to defend the players if they are right.
Tactically, Amorim's influence is already apparent. He has implemented a 3-4-2-1 formation, focusing on ball circulation and constant ball possession. He also emphasizes the importance of restarting plays from the back if a drill isn't working. In the first tactical drill, he alternated between two teams, providing players with rest and creating a rhythm in the training session. Amorim's attention to detail and his focus on pressing mechanisms will be crucial in shaping the team's future success.
While it's premature to draw definitive conclusions after just a few training sessions, Amorim's methods already stand out. His emphasis on building relationships, engaging with players, and implementing a structured tactical approach suggests a more hands-on and direct coaching style. As he continues to implement his vision, Milan fans can anticipate a fresh and exciting era, one that may bring a new level of success and joy to the club.