Past, present and future: Milan stung by familiar names in Monza loss

The links between AC Milan and Monza are countless, and Sunday’s clash gave displays of both positivity and negativity for the Rossoneri. 

Of course, the overlying negative of the game is the result. Milan could have gone second in Serie A, and their failure to do so hurts, and it must be instantly rectified – given, before the game, there were still hopes of eventually challenging Inter.

Then, there can be a feeling of regret, and the past, present and future elements can be linked to each goal – coincidentally, it goes in chronological order.

The first goal of the evening was scored by former Milan academy talent Matteo Pessina. The attacking midfielder has previously expressed his feeling of regret for how his Diavolo career went, and his goal, and season in general, is a sign of what could’ve been.

Then, after a goal from Danny Mota, Luka Jovic’s dismissal, and a double for Milan, a player formerly of interest for the Rossoneri delivered a dagger blow. In the summer of 2022, Warren Bondo was a player of significant interest to the club, given his contract was expiring, but he was never acted upon. Again, what could have been…

Then, there is the present, perhaps more so, the future. Bondo’s goal was assisted by a Milan loanee, Daniel Maldini. It was by no means one of the best assists football has seen. However, it was a nice flick nonetheless and a sign of his intelligence in those areas, which the Rossoneri would appreciate more had it come against a different opponent.

The final goal of the evening was scored by another loanee, this time Lorenzo Colombo. It won’t be remembered as a great goal, but it was intelligent play and a well-taken finish. Will it be enough to earn him a spot in the Rossoneri’s squad next season? Probably, almost definitely not. However, he showed inklings of his ability, which will be appreciated if it is prolonged.