Gonna give 2 thumbs up to Ricky for his effort and commitment off the ball on defense since the beginning of the season. A new player. And this game he was even more productive on the ball aswell which was a bonus. I can't hate on a guy who gives 150% and leaves his soul on the pitch, gotta admire that. Both Ricky and Palacio's work-ethic and stamina on the pitch is just remarkable and the true reason to our short success, cause this entire pressure game starts from the top.
I thought Juan had a near perfect game btw - was my MOTM.
Brilliant start to the league by him, didn't step a foot wrong throughout the game and was so imposing physically and won most of the balls sent his way with ease, while not doing anything crazy. You can see some signs of development with him, Campagnaro and Mazzari to thank, obviously. Still don't trust him in the long-run though, but I hope he feeds me crow.
Cuchu came back in time and gave a classic throwback Cuchu performance - brilliant pressure and covering, always in the right place at the right time, didn't linger or try too much on the ball and focused on defense where he shut Pirlo down pressuring higher up, but also returned to his position to cover for everyone else and be a rock in the defensive midfield.
Taider was pretty solid. Like the look of him considering his age - and now with Mazzari on board, hoping for improvement and player development from within isn't a funny word anymore. Very active, jack of all trades and master of none midfielder - I'd look for his defensive ability and authority on the pitch to grow for him to really shine, hopefully we'll see him improve with time aswell and grow into it more.
Campagnaro is the best CB in the league probably atm.
Mazzari is a god.
Overall I enjoyed the game. We stood as equals and made a pretty big statement with this game I think, to others and to ourselves.
The offense is lacking, but I can accept that cause Ricky's and Palacio's high pressure from the CF and SS positions is the key to our success. I would not screw with that atm and keep it rolling, relying on correct in-game subs to change games if needed.
Eventually maybe Ricky shifted to the midfield and Icardi to the CF, but I'm not ready to trust Ricky with being on the ball as much, so far away from goal. It was a recipe for disaster throughout his stay here - the SS position is clearly the one for him - and he clearly needs to stay in the lineup with the effort and pressure he's applying for 90 minutes.