Amorim Admits Camarda Must Improve Explosiveness After Another Struggling Display

FolioPitch.com – 16 October 2026 | Ruben Amorim has acknowledged that young striker Francesco Camarda must work on his explosiveness following another underwhelming performance in AC Milan‘s 4-0 victory over Salzburg. The coach’s admission came after the 18-year-old was handed a rare start, one of seven changes to the lineup, but failed to seize the opportunity. Amorim admits Camarda must improve explosiveness after another struggling display, highlighting a key area for development.

Camarda, who has been touted as one of Milan’s brightest prospects, struggled with poor ball control and a noticeable lack of pace, earning a mere 5/10 rating from observers. While several fringe players impressed, the young striker’s display left much to be desired. Amorim, speaking to Sky Italia post-match, was candid in his assessment: “Camarda reads games well. He needs to improve his explosiveness, pace, and rhythm. We’re working on it. He has the ability to run for the full 90 minutes. We’re working on it. That’s something he lacked again tonight, also because he knows how to move in the box, he knows a lot.”

The coach’s comments underline a growing concern: while Camarda possesses commendable game intelligence and movement, his physical attributes lag behind the demands of top-level football. Explosiveness—the ability to accelerate rapidly and change direction—is crucial for strikers to create separation from defenders and latch onto through balls. Without it, even the smartest forwards can struggle to make an impact. Amorim admits Camarda must improve explosiveness after another struggling display, and the coaching staff are reportedly devising a tailored training regimen to address this.

This isn’t the first time Camarda has faced such criticism. Despite his youth, he has been under intense scrutiny, with expectations high due to his early promise. However, the gap between potential and performance remains wide. The 4-0 win over Salzburg was a chance for squad players to stake a claim, and while the likes of Fikayo Tomori, Ardon Jashari, and Omari Hutchinson made positive impressions, Camarda’s performance was a stark contrast. His inability to hold up play or threaten in behind limited Milan’s attacking fluidity, though the scoreline flattered the hosts.

Amorim’s willingness to publicly address Camarda’s shortcomings is notable. It reflects both honesty and a desire to push the youngster. The coach added that Camarda’s work rate is not in question—he can run for 90 minutes—but football at the highest level requires more than endurance. Explosive bursts are often the difference between a half-chance and a goal. The coaching staff are now tasked with refining his physical profile without compromising his natural strengths.

From a tactical perspective, Camarda’s lack of explosiveness affects how Milan can deploy him. In Amorim’s system, which often relies on quick transitions and pressing, a striker who can’t accelerate away from defenders or close down aggressively can be a liability. This is perhaps why the coach has been hesitant to give him extended minutes. Yet, the tight schedule means opportunities will arise, and Camarda may get another start within a week or two. Whether he can capitalise will depend on how quickly he can improve.

Amorim admits Camarda must improve explosiveness after another struggling display, but he also stressed that the club is patient. At 18, Camarda has time on his side. The focus will be on gym work, sprint mechanics, and plyometrics—methods designed to enhance fast-twitch muscle fibres and reaction time. Milan’s fitness coaches are among the best in the business, and with their guidance, progress is possible.

For now, Camarda remains a work in progress. His intelligence and movement are assets, but without the physical tools to execute, he will continue to frustrate. The coming weeks will be telling. If he can make even marginal gains in explosiveness, his all-round game could improve significantly. Amorim’s public challenge is a clear message: the talent is there, but the hard work starts now.

In conclusion, Francesco Camarda’s development is at a critical juncture. Amorim’s admission that he must improve explosiveness is both a critique and a roadmap. With dedicated training and continued opportunities, the young striker has the potential to become a valuable asset for AC Milan. However, time is of the essence, and the next few months will reveal whether he can bridge the gap between promise and performance.