Amorim’s Honest Assessment: Milan’s Victory Masks Work Ahead

FolioPitch.com – 29 August 2026 | AC Milan‘s new head coach Ruben Amorim has made no secret of the challenges that lie ahead, and his honest assessment after Saturday’s narrow 2-0 win over Venezia captured that perfectly. ‘Amorim admits Milan have a lot to do despite victory Sometimes we don t win beautifully,’ he told DAZN, encapsulating both the relief of three points and the reality of a performance that was far from flawless.

In his first home game in charge at a roaring San Siro, the Rossoneri secured a result that on paper looks comfortable. Goncalo Ramos broke the deadlock just after the hour mark, finishing calmly after being set up by Alexis Saelemaekers, and a late own goal from Ardon Jashari doubled the lead. Two wins from two under Amorim suggests a bright start, but the Portuguese tactician was quick to temper any early enthusiasm.

“I think it’s easy to understand the match,” Amorim reflected. “I said before the game that it would be difficult because of the way Venezia would play. We struggled in one-on-one situations and in some transitions. But we had more chances than they did, that’s clear. Yet we never kept possession for long periods. We managed some things well, others less so. We need to keep working, but we won, and that’s the most important thing.”

The former Sporting CP boss was particularly candid about the areas requiring urgent attention. His admission that Milan must improve how they occupy the penalty area during crosses and how defenders prepare for transitions underlined the scale of the task. ‘Amorim admits Milan have a lot to do despite victory Sometimes we don t win beautifully,’ he reiterated when discussing the team’s style, acknowledging that grinding out results is sometimes necessary while the squad adapts to his methods.

One tactical tweak paid dividends. Saelemaekers, introduced into a more advanced midfield role, provided the creativity that was lacking in the first half. “I was watching the game and thought we had space in his position and needed creativity. Initially, I thought about just replacing Ruben Loftus-Cheek, but then I thought we needed more creativity. That was the idea,” Amorim explained. The Belgian’s impact was immediate, as he carved open the Venezia defence for the opener.

Ramos, despite missing two presentable chances earlier, showed the composure of a natural finisher when it mattered. Amorim refused to single out his goals tally as the focus. “I don’t know how many goals I ask from him,” he said. “Sure, he’s a striker, we paid a lot for him, but the way he works helps us a lot. Sometimes it seems like there are two of them pressing, but in the end it’s just one. Today he missed two chances, but on the third he didn’t think about anything, just about scoring, and he did it.”

The fans, who have seen both the highs of European glory and the lows of turbulent seasons, understand the need for patience. Amorim acknowledged the pressure of the San Siro crowd but praised their support. “There’s a lot to do, but it’s not easy to play in this stadium. The fans have a good memory, but they’re working really hard. Sometimes we don’t win beautifully, but this helps us build confidence.”

Indeed, the phrase that has defined his first two matches in charge is one of cautious optimism. ‘Amorim admits Milan have a lot to do despite victory Sometimes we don t win beautifully’ has quickly become the mantra of a pragmatist who values results over style during this early transitional period. With consecutive victories to his name, the new coach has bought himself time to implement his ideas, but the scrutiny from media and supporters alike remains intense.

As Milan look ahead to a packed fixture schedule, the need for incremental improvement is paramount. The defensive solidity that allowed Venezia to create only half-chances was a positive, but the midfield’s inability to control tempo against a deep-lying opponent exposed systemic issues. Amorim’s willingness to be transparent about these shortcomings is a departure from the often guarded language of his predecessor, and it has resonated with a fanbase weary of hollow promises.

For now, the Rossoneri sit on a modest winning run, and the momentum is undeniable. But the coach’s own words serve as a grounding reminder: this is a project still in its infancy. ‘Amorim admits Milan have a lot to do despite victory Sometimes we don t win beautifully’ – a statement that sums up the fine line between immediate success and long-term transformation. With a demanding away trip next, the Italian giants must prove that they can marry resilience with refinement, and that the second victory is not merely a flash of luck, but the foundation of something sustainable.