Fikayo Tomori hails Allegri’s impact: ‘He immediately said we must not concede as many goals as last season’

Fikayo Tomori has underlined the defensive transformation at AC Milan under Massimiliano Allegri, praising the Italian coach’s early insistence on tightening up at the back.

The England international said: “As soon as Allegri arrived, he immediately said that we must not concede as many goals as we did last season.

“We worked hard, following his instructions: not playing too compact, not leaving open spaces, not running chaotically all over the pitch trying to win the ball back. Sometimes you need to stay calm, show patience, because when you have possession, skill allows you to threaten the opponent’s goal.”

Tomori, who was born in Canada to Nigerian parents but represents England internationally, has become a cornerstone of Milan’s defence.

The 2-year-old credited Allegri’s experience with “many strong players” for shaping Milan’s early-season form. After five rounds, the Rossoneri sit atop the Serie A standings ahead of Napoli and Roma on tiebreakers, a position built on greater discipline and improved game management.

Milan’s defensive resilience has also been key to their attacking freedom, with Allegri’s tactical adjustments reducing the chaos of last season and introducing more patience in possession. For Tomori, that shift represents a maturing side capable of sustaining a title challenge.

The centre-back’s comments reflect a wider belief within the Milan squad that Allegri’s return has brought balance and structure. As the season develops, the team’s defensive solidity – anchored by Tomori – could prove decisive in their quest to reclaim the Scudetto.