Oguchi Onyewu's official AC Milan debut finally came on Wednesday, but the result of the match itself overshadowed any good feelings that might have come from Onyewu's first official appearance for the Italian club.
The U.S. national team defender played the final 30 minutes in AC Milan's 1-0 loss to FC Zurich, a loss that came just days after Milan's surprising draw vs. Bari. The recent results have Milan head coach Leonardo facing rumors that he could soon be fired.
How did Onyewu do? He held his own, drawing a handful of fouls and forcing a corner kick as he pushed forward and played what amounted to a target forward role in the match's final minutes. There were a few nervy moments in the back as Onyewu and central defense partner Kakha Khaladze struggled to communicate early on, but Onyewu eventually settled in and faced down every challenge Zurich threw his way. It was a solid debut, especially considering he was partnered with the shaky Khaladze rather than the steady Alessandro Nesta.
What next for Onyewu? AC Milan faces winless Atalanta on Sunday. Atalanta is second from bottom in Serie A and has managed just two goals in six matches this season. It would be the ideal match for Onyewu to earn his first start in, especially with regular starter Thiago Silva still recovering from a leg injury. It is the final match before Onyewu reports for national team duty, and thus his last chance to get some playing time as he prepares to face Honduras and Costa Rica.
In a best-case scenario, Onyewu would be partnered with Nesta against Atalanta, rather than Khaladze, who really is a defensive liability. Either way, the Atalanta match could be Onyewu's best chance for a while to show he deserves more playing time at Milan because Silva is expected to be fully recovered after the international fixture break. At this point it is up to Leonardo, who is feeling the heat to produce some results, to give Onyewu the opportunity.
What did you think of Onyewu's performance? Feeling confident that he will see more playing time? Are you hoping Leonardo gets the boot so Onyewu can have a shot at more playing time, or are you hoping he keeps his job and starts playing Onyewu more?
Share your thoughts below.
