The future of Fikayo Tomori is a puzzling one. However, a report this morning suggests he could be to Massimiliano Allegri what Andrea Barzagli was.
In the last six months, there have been several fates awaiting Tomori. He had gone from probably the most consistent defender at Milan to a shadow of his former self. As a result, exits were suggested. In January and approaching the summer, it was entirely possible he’d leave.
So far, though, he has not. Now, it does not seem at all like he will, with Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) stating that he is crucial for the Allegrian system. In fact, the paper compares him to Andrea Barzagli, who was a stalwart for Massimiliano Allegri during his time at Juventus.
Capable of shifting the defence between a three and a four, the Englishman can transform the backline by himself. A delicate role, with specific characteristics required. For Allegri, though, there is the belief that Tomori can be the new Barzagli. He is relying on it.
Already, the ‘wind has changed’ for Milan, and he feels like success can arrive. However, defensively, a sorting needs to happen. The Rossoneri threw away their season in the backline last year, which Allegri can and will hope to fix.
To do so, he will start from scratch and there is more on the line than just titles. For Tomori, the next season will directly impact his renewal. But, no one thinks of the future, just the now and bettering on last season. Both personally and as a team.
He is ready to fight and prove himself, to the fans, to Allegri and to himself. Last season was difficult, but it can be overturned.
In pre-season, he has already showed himself to be a bit of a leader. He has taken press conferences and spoken after games, whilst displaying proper characteristics on the pitch. For him, the idea of the England squad is there also, and conversations have already been had with Thomas Tuchel.
The defence needs rebuilding and Allegri has asked for Tomori’s hand. In return, he has offered it and has become ready for the challenges ahead. It is another project for Allegri, but one that could return substantial gain.
