A physical preparation that raises questions: Is OM already ready or too early?

Admit it, it feels strange to see our OM display such intensity from the first pre-season matches! Usually, we see teams dragging their feet, just digesting the summer workload. But this time, our Olympians seem to have energy to spare. So, is this a good sign or are we at risk of burning out too fast? Let's discuss it all together: is this high pace a real asset for the season or just a misleading idea? Tell us what you think in the comments!

The pressing and De Zerbi's touch finally on display?

Let's not lie to ourselves, last season, we expected more from De Zerbi in terms of pressing. We were a bit frustrated, weren't we? But now, during the pre-season games, you can feel that work is being done. And frankly, seeing Greenwood – who was sometimes accused of being a bit apathetic – fight like a demon, is pleasing to watch. He plays smartly, runs, presses hard... Has he got the coach's message at last? If Greenwood continues like this, he can clearly step up this season. Keep a close watch!

A familiar eleven, but adjustments still needed

What's also striking is the stability of the starting eleven. Apart from a few tweaks (Gomes in the midfield, Medina in defense), it's almost the same team as last year. And you can feel it on the pitch: they play, they combine, you can see they have their bearings. But, between us, there are still three positions that are struggling, right? The halftime exits of Garcia, Murillo, and Rowe are no coincidence... It's a little message to management: reinforcements are needed on the flanks! Do you agree? Who would you like to see join these positions?

Angel Gomes, the missing piece or just a complementary player?

So, what do you think of Angel Gomes? He recovers a lot, never loses the ball, but for now, he doesn't break enough lines for my liking. Maybe we expected more verticality, those famous “laser” passes that hurt. Is it simply a matter of adjustment time, or is that his true style? Personally, I think we're going to appreciate his technical security in the heart of the game, especially in De Zerbi's system where clean play is necessary. But will he dare to do more in the weeks to come? Give us your opinion, we're curious!

Harit, the X factor for offensive rotation?

It's impossible not to talk about Amine Harit's game! He delighted us in this second half, provoking the penalty and bringing creativity. Can he impose himself in this number 10 position, even if it means moving Rabiot lower? It's a real tactical question for De Zerbi. You feel that Harit has the means to shake up a defense over a short period. But can we trust him with the keys to the game over the long term? What would you do in the coach's place?

Tactical analysis: this 4-2-3-1 that hardly changes

Tactically, no revolution: the 4-2-3-1 has stayed intact. Medina showed his versatility between center and left side, Nadir did the job in the midfield, and the permutations are increasingly fluid. But honestly, don't you think there's still a need for that famous left-back capable of cutting inside, like Merlin in his early days? A real hybrid player, not just a classic full-back. If we have to target a profile, that's it in my view. Do you share this feeling?

The young ones: Bakola, Vaz, Abdallah... real options for rotation?

To conclude, a word on the youngsters. Honestly, Bakola, for his 17 years, has shown good things: ball control, personality, he doesn't hide. Robinio Vaz and Abdallah, the same, they try, even if not everything works. Will it be enough to get some playing time this season? Not sure, given the density in midfield and possible future reinforcements... But we might have the hopes of tomorrow here. To be watched, especially if some key players disappoint. Maupay, for example, how do you feel about him? For now, it's not taking off... Perhaps his mind is already elsewhere with all the transfer rumors?

Conclusion: OM on the right track, but beware of overconfidence

We'll end on this: this pre-season is delightful, the intensity is there, the group is doing well, and the automatic plays are in place. But be careful not to get carried away too quickly, we know the drill... There are still shortcomings to address, especially on the sides, and some players need to up their game. Well, it's up to you, friends: are you reassured, or are you waiting to see against real opponents? We want your analyses in the comments!