Musah started to the right in Milan’s 4-2-3-1 formation last night, with Christian Pulisic playing in the centre, and it’s a decision that was questioned before the game. Sure enough, just seven minutes into the game, the American made a huge mistake to gift Fiorentina the opening goal.
Receiving the ball in the middle of the pitch, slightly to the right, Musah only needed to make a simple pass and he wasn’t under extreme pressure either. However, he completely scuffed the pass and Fiorentina were able to pick up the loose ball, making the most of it.
In recent weeks, Musah was described as having ‘a Premier League engine’ given his work-rate and ability to cover lots of space on the pitch. However, as we also pointed out in the player ratings last night, that doesn’t matter much if you can’t get the basics right.
Unfortunately for Musah, there have been too many silly mistakes this season and yesterday’s misplaced pass certainly isn’t an isolated incident. When playing for a club like Milan, you simply cannot afford those mistakes, let alone multiple times in a single season.
Conceicao’s decision to take him off after just 23 minutes, resulting in Musah running down the tunnel, was harsh but also not unjustified. The astounding thing is that it has happened before this season too, when the American was subbed off after 30 minutes against Lazio.
Why Conceicao continues to opt for the midfielder, only to waste a sub almost immediately, is thus another interesting question to ask. In any case, the point is that Musah has had more than enough chances to prove his quality and, above all, gain consistency. But he has failed.
With a rebuild expected in the summer, which could be led by Tony D’Amico or Igli Tare, it’s only reasonable to think that Musah will pack his bags. That being said, given his age and potential (yes, there actually is potential), a loan seems more likely than a permanent move.
If he can play a full season with another Serie A team, gaining experience and eliminating the mistakes from his game, then a future at Milan cannot be ruled out. In fact, when put like that, it sounds like a very good solution to a complicated issue.
On the other hand, an eye must be kept on the mercato as Musah has attracted interest despite the mistakes, which could lead to a permanent sale. Milan bought him for around €21m in the summer of 2023 and a similar figure could probably prompt the Rossoneri to part ways with the 22-year-old.
Between now and the end of the season, though, Conceicao will have to decide on one role for Musah rather than using him in multiple ones. And early subs, simply for the message they send, should be avoided.
