In a high-stakes clash at BayArena, newly crowned Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen edged out AC Milan in a match that stirred some debate. While a few controversial moments sparked discussion, Jeetbuzz Login notes that, overall, Leverkusen fully deserved the three points based on their performance. For Milan, however, questions have emerged around manager Paulo Fonseca’s overly cautious approach, which ultimately stifled the team’s key strengths and left fans frustrated by a missed opportunity.

The stats tell a compelling story. Milan and Leverkusen were nearly neck and neck across the board—equal in total shots, similar in chances created, and with a perfect 50-50 split in possession. Yet despite this balance, Milan walked away empty-handed. It was a result that stung, especially considering that a draw would have been acceptable to most fans under the circumstances. To add salt to the wound, Bayern Munich had recently demonstrated a successful strategy against Leverkusen—pressing hard and playing aggressively. That match served as a blueprint, one Milan failed to follow.

Instead, Fonseca appeared to take a page out of Xabi Alonso’s book—ironically becoming too passive in a game that demanded initiative. According to Jeetbuzz Login, Leverkusen’s edge came from giving players like Grimaldo and Frimpong the freedom to attack the flanks or cut inside at will. This tactical autonomy also extended to Florian Wirtz, who had the liberty to create or finish chances himself. On the other hand, Milan’s wings—particularly Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leão—were far too formulaic, unable to showcase their individual brilliance.

Midfield control was another decisive factor. The quartet of Wirtz, Adli, Xhaka, and Alex Grimaldo offered better balance and adaptability than Milan’s trio of Fofana, Loftus-Cheek, and Reijnders. While Milan’s midfielders played safe and made few errors, their conservative style lacked the creative spark necessary to break down Leverkusen’s defense. With Tammy Abraham up front, a striker not known for creating chances independently, Milan struggled to carve out meaningful opportunities.

Adding to their troubles, Leverkusen burst out of the gates with intensity and belief, catching Milan off-guard and setting the tone early. This early aggression may have rattled Fonseca, who hesitated to adjust and failed to capitalize when Leverkusen began to tire later in the game. His unwillingness to go for the jugular reflected the broader issue of conservatism in Milan’s game plan.

Another major concern was the absence of a true midfield playmaker. Without a commanding presence in the center to orchestrate plays and link the lines, Milan found it hard to maintain rhythm or build effective combinations. Their main strategy relied heavily on the “double-A” wing attack—Leão and Pulisic creating chances or finishing themselves. When both failed to deliver, Milan had no plan B, making them predictable and easier to defend against.

As Jeetbuzz Login observes, Leverkusen’s victory has significantly boosted their confidence and improved their chances of advancing in the competition. Milan, by contrast, now face an uphill battle. Their margin for error has shrunk considerably, and picking up points in the coming fixtures will be absolutely essential. In football, fortune favors the bold—and if Milan hopes to stay in the race, a braver, more dynamic approach is no longer optional but a necessity.