Massimiliano Allegri admits Milan did not perform up to par against Parma and was particularly unhappy with Mario Balotelli.
Massimiliano Allegri admits Milan did not perform up to par against Parma and was particularly unhappy with Mario Balotelli.
The Rossoneri had fought back from 2-0 down, but were beaten 3-2 at the death at the Stadio Tardini today.
“In the first half we created little and conceded twice on the counter-attack,” the Coach told Sky Sport Italia.
“After the break we did more and went close to a third goal, but then that free kick happened at the end. We were naive and conceded two goals just before the end of each half.
“We should’ve closed down and not allowed any more space, but instead we got it wrong.”
Allegri made surprising substitutions, replacing Balotelli and Andrea Poli when still 2-0 down.
“We had to change something for the second half. I took off Balotelli because he didn’t have a good game, while Poli had done well and it was a tactical issue.
“Balotelli had a few good moments, but overall it was not a good game. I needed a centre-forward who could really play that role and Balotelli wasn’t doing it, although he has the characteristics. He'd also been booked, so I was afraid we'd go down to 10 men.
“We are not balanced yet, as we go from great focus in the Champions League to distractions in Serie A. I said this game was fundamental for us to keep up with the top six, but as they all won this weekend it becomes even more difficult.
“We need to improve a great deal away from home, as we’ve only picked up two points this season on our travels.”
Finally, Allegri confirmed the January deals have already been secured.
“Adil Rami and Keisuke Honda will be joining us in January and strengthen our squad.”