The early stages of the Serie A season are already proving to be challenging for AC Milan manager Paulo Fonseca, who faces mounting pressure following a disappointing start. The pressure is set to intensify this weekend as Milan prepares to visit Lazio, a match that could significantly impact Fonseca’s position.
Milan, the runners-up last season, secured a dramatic late draw against Torino with two goals in the dying moments but then suffered a disheartening 2-1 defeat to promoted Parma. This inconsistent performance has left supporters questioning Fonseca’s vision, particularly given the club’s significant investment in new players during the close season.
Fonseca will have crucial decisions to make in defense after his side conceded four goals in 180 minutes against seemingly weaker Serie A teams. New signing Strahinja Pavlovic, who shone in the last match against Parma, is likely to keep his place over Malick Thiaw, who has been subject to criticism and is battling an ankle injury.
Meanwhile, Juventus, under the guidance of new coach Thiago Motta, has made a stellar start to the season, emerging as the only team with a perfect record after two matches following decisive 3-0 victories against Hellas Verona and Como. However, their first significant test of the season arrives on Sunday when Daniele De Rossi’s AS Roma visits Allianz Stadium.
Roma, like Milan, has endured an underwhelming start, securing only one point from its first two matches, including a disappointing home defeat against Empoli. The team will be eager to turn things around against Juventus, aiming for a strong performance to regain momentum.
Champion Inter Milan will face a challenging opponent in Atalanta on Friday at home. Captain and key striker Lautaro Martinez is recovering from a muscle problem, but Italian media reports suggest he may not start the match as he hasn’t fully recovered.
Antonio Conte’s Napoli endured a difficult start to the season, suffering a 3-0 loss at Hellas Verona. However, they rebounded with a convincing victory over Bologna in the last round and face Parma on Saturday, aiming to maintain their winning form.
The early rounds of Serie A have been filled with surprises and unexpected results, setting the stage for a thrilling season ahead. As the pressure mounts, teams like Milan and Roma will need to find their rhythm and secure important victories to avoid falling further behind in the title race.
