Ruben Amorim surprises everyone by sharing why he benched the AC Milan player who just scored a hat-trick.
AC Milan’s head coach Ruben Amorim surprised TV commentators with his answer about why Alphadjo Cisse didn’t start against Atalanta, even though the young striker scored a hat-trick in their last Europa League game against RB Salzburg.
Usually, scoring three goals in a match, especially in a big European game, means a player will start the next match, but that wasn’t the case for Cisse. Milan won 4-0 against Salzburg last week, with Cisse scoring three of those goals.
Many thought the 19-year-old Italian would be in the lineup for Milan’s 3-2 win over Atalanta at the San Siro on Sunday, October 18, but instead, Christian Pulisic was chosen.
Since Milan won, Amorim’s bold choice worked out well, but why did he make it? After the match, he explained to DAZN that every game is different and he picks players based on the opponent and playing style, not just on recent performance. He also mentioned Cisse isn’t used to playing back-to-back games yet, so he wanted to keep him fresh in case he needed to come on later and score again.
Fans took to social media with mixed thoughts about Amorim’s surprising decision. One said, “Scores a hat-trick and still has to prove himself again. Amorim treats goals like a job interview where even a perfect performance doesn’t guarantee the next shift.” Another wrote, “If the team wins, it’s because of his tactics. Players can’t be the focus. Seems egocentric. He might struggle managing big players.” Someone else said, “Managers say this every season but then act surprised when players lose confidence and want to leave. Cisse should be knocking on his door now.” But others praised Amorim: “Resting your hat-trick hero Cisse against a team like Atalanta and still winning is impressive. Take your flowers, Amorim. You’re really doing well.”
Milan will play away against Bournemouth in the Europa League on October 22 and then face Udinese in Serie A on October 25.