Yunus Musah’s Transition to Atalanta: An Analysis of Tactical Fit and Future Prospects

The tension between Yunus Musah and Massimiliano Allegri may have been somewhat exaggerated, yet visual observations during their matches have raised eyebrows. Notably, two pivotal incidents during the clash between Milan and Lecce hinted at underlying issues. In the second half, Musah was left on the ground after enduring a strong challenge, resulting in contact between Allegri’s foot and Musah’s body, though it was not an overt act of aggression.

Later in the match, Allegri reprimanded Musah for attempting to take a quick throw-in while leading 2-0 during stoppage time. Musah’s response—dropping the ball and averting his gaze—indicated a disconnect. It is important to recognize that disagreements between managers and players are common. Allegri has a reputation as a strict disciplinarian, known for his intense style of football, which reportedly hindered his chances of securing a managerial position in the Premier League when he infamously stated, “I don’t have a playing style.”

Furthermore, Allegri made it clear to the Milan hierarchy that he desired a center midfielder who could bring more control to the team. His choice was veteran Frenchman Adrien Rabiot, who has a history with Allegri at Juventus and is a regular with the French national team. Consequently, Musah’s prospects at Milan appeared limited from the outset.

The situation progressed swiftly regarding Musah’s transfer, with whispers of his uncertain future at the club intensifying. Although early reports suggested he would be a key player for Milan, on August 27—just days before the transfer deadline—Matteo Moretto, a Serie A transfer expert, reported that Musah was likely to join Atalanta, who were willing to pay €25 million for his services. Eventually, a loan with a club option to buy was agreed upon.

Atalanta presented a somewhat peculiar choice for Musah, despite the appeal of joining a club in need of midfield depth that plays attacking football and competes in the Champions League. Tactically, Atalanta employs a 3-4-2-1 formation, featuring two disciplined center midfielders and agile wingers. Musah, known for his energetic box-to-box style, can also adapt to play on the wings, having proven his versatility with the U.S. Men’s National Team in a 4-3-3 formation. He noted, “It’s more of a position where you’re supposed to be that guy that takes risks, takes on a man, and creates scoring chances. When the coach tells you to play free, it gives you even more of a chance to do those things.”

His flexibility is commendable, yet it may have hindered his development slightly. At Milan during the 2023-24 campaign, Musah occupied nine different positions, with 42% of his minutes spent in central midfield, where he performed commendably. The remainder included time on the wings, as a defensive midfielder, and even as a right winger, yet his primary effectiveness remained in central roles.

The following year, with a managerial change at Milan, Musah’s role shifted dramatically. Under Paolo Fonseca, he primarily functioned as a right attacking midfielder within a system that did not favor his strengths. Although he accumulated 1,600 minutes and 19 Serie A starts, he struggled to establish the specialization necessary to thrive.

Atalanta has seemingly capitalized on this predicament. Musah faces a challenge akin to Weston McKennie, possessing a diverse skill set but trapped in a system that does not fully leverage his strengths. Consequently, breaking into the starting XI has proved challenging, particularly with established midfielders Ederson and Mario Pasalic ahead of him, alongside Davide Zappacosta and Raoul Bellanova, who occupy wide positions.

Despite the tactical awkwardness, the limited minutes Musah has received are even more surprising. Ederson is a standout midfielder, regularly logging full matches, while Pasalic’s age suggests that he may require rest. While rotational minutes could be attainable, Musah has only appeared six times in Serie A, totaling 145 minutes, with his sole start coming during his time at Milan against Lecce. He has participated in five of Atalanta’s last ten matches, despite being fully fit.

Musah’s performances have been commendable, although it is difficult to leave a mark when opportunities are scarce. He has contributed an assist in the Champions League, and his dribbling and ball-carrying statistics remain strong.

Looking ahead, there are reasons for cautious optimism. Atalanta currently finds themselves in a challenging position, sitting 13th in the league after 11 games, despite only two losses, with seven draws. Public discord has emerged between management and players, notably Ademola Lookman. Furthermore, the club’s transfer window was marred by the $78 million sale of star player Mateo Retegui to the Saudi Pro League.

In response, the club made the predictable decision to dismiss manager Ivan Juric ahead of the international break. His tenure was always precarious, having been the second choice for the position last summer. The loss to Sassuolo sealed his fate. Raffaele Palladino, who previously exceeded expectations with Fiorentina, has now taken the helm. Palladino’s system featured a 4-5-1 formation with a focus on dynamic midfield play, which could provide a more suitable environment for Musah.

This change could signal a resurgence for the U.S. Men’s National Team player. Coach Pochettino has made it clear that only regularly active players will be considered for selection, and Musah’s previous exclusions underscore this point. Under Palladino, he may have the opportunity to change that narrative. It is also essential to remember that Musah was instrumental for Gregg Berhalter during the 2022 World Cup, showcasing exceptional chemistry with Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie. This synergy made the U.S. midfield formidable, highlighting why Musah was so highly regarded as a promising talent. Perhaps a similar team dynamic is what he needs once again.

Ultimately, Pochettino requires Musah’s contributions. While acknowledging his favorites, the coach previously indicated that Cristian Roldan epitomized the ideal player. However, Musah’s capabilities surpass those of Roldan. If he can seize this opportunity and demonstrate that Atalanta was indeed the right move, the U.S. Men’s National Team will undoubtedly benefit.