AC Milan fell to a 2-1 defeat to Napoli at the San Siro on Saturday night, with a poor start to the game costing them dearly.
Goals from Lorenzo Insigne and Jose Callejon in the opening 10 minutes put the visitors in a commanding position, and despite a Juraj Kucka strike and a spirited fight back from the Rossoneri, they were unable to take anything from the game.
Positives
Milan made a really slow start to the game, but as they settled they played some excellent football and caused Napoli countless problems. Many supporters would have feared the worst after that opening 10 minutes, but the players responded and showed real character and desire to mount a comeback.
Negatives
Similar to the Torino game, Milan did not start the game well enough and weren't focused at the back. They're making life difficult for themselves and will need to start on the front foot and compete for the full 90 minutes if they are to take any points from games like these.
Manager rating out of 10
7 -- Vincenzo Montella had to reorganise his troops after the early setbacks, and as Milan settled and imposed themselves on the game, things improved. The Italian tactician tried to freshen things up in the second half with changes that made perfect sense, but it just didn't come off for him or his players.
Player ratings (1-10; 10 = best. Players introduced after 70 minutes get no rating)
GK Gianluigi Donnarumma, 6 -- From a critical standpoint, he could have arguably done better on both goals. However, the youngster redeemed himself with some quality saves in the second half to keep Milan in the game and almost even got himself a dramatic late goal.
DF Ignazio Abate, 5 -- Lorenzo Insigne was causing all sorts of problems down his flank with his pace and movement. Was used as more of an attacking force, but his final ball rarely found a Milan player.
DF Gustavo Gomez, 5 -- The Paraguayan stepped in for the suspended Alessio Romagnoli, and was solid if not extravagant. Still lacks confidence on the ball and looks nervous in defence at times, perhaps he would benefit from a loan spell elsewhere to play regularly and build his confidence.
DF Gabriel Paletta, 7 -- An immense performance from the experienced centre-half. He had to overcome a shaky start, but he read the game brilliantly to produce countless interceptions and although he had a huge disadvantage in terms of pace compared to the Napoli frontline, did brilliantly to marshal the backline.
DF Davide Calabria, 5 -- It was always going to be difficult for the youngster as he was again asked to play out of position on the left. Callejon caused him problems and was caught out for the goals, but his spirit can't be questioned as he battled hard throughout.
MF Juraj Kucka, 7 -- Took his goal really well as he produced a composed finish having raced clear of the Napoli defence. Battled hard in midfield as always, and provided solidity and steel to help Milan eventually gain a foothold in the game.
MF Jose Sosa, 5 -- Improved as the game went on as his clever turns and passes started to come off. However, it wasn't consistent enough and he'll be disappointed that he wasn't able to grab his chance to impress with Manuel Locatelli surely set to walk back into the side next week.
MF Mario Pasalic, 6 -- Was unfortunate not to get his name on the scoresheet with a header that crashed off the crossbar. Still a little too inconsistent with his distribution, but covers so much ground with his energy and commitment and is a presence in midfield for Milan.
FW Suso, 6 -- The Spaniard is still missing that bit of quality with his final delivery to be decisive, but positive things usually happen when the ball is at his feet. Constantly caused Napoli problems, but will want to add to his goal and assist tally soon.
FW Carlos Bacca, 5 -- Struggled to get involved in general play for the most part, which led to significant periods of being isolated. However, his attitude seems to be much better, as he put himself about, chased down and did well in leading the line.
FW Giacomo Bonaventura, 6 -- Made a slow start to the game as he couldn't get on the ball, but improved as it went on and Milan's most dangerous attacks regularly went through him. Needed to do better though in order to inspire his side to a comeback.
Substitutes
FW Gianluca Lapadula, N/A -- Unfortunately, he wasn't able to make an impact in the closing stages as he has so often done this season. Long balls into the box didn't play to his strengthens and so his influence was limited.
MF Andrea Bertolacci, N/A -- Not a particularly great cameo appearance from the midfielder as he struggled to get up to the pace and was wayward with his distribution.
FW M'Baye Niang, N/A -- After his horrendous effort against Torino, he at least looked a little more lively. However, he didn't have enough time to impact the game.