AC Milan boss Gennaro Gattuso has sought to clarify apparent criticism of the “defects” of on-loan Chelsea midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko.
French midfielder Bakayoko joined Chelsea after impressing at Monaco, but left after one difficult season, signing for Milan on loan with a view to a permanent move at the end of the campaign.
Bakayoko made his debut in Milan’s 3-2 loss at Napoli last Saturday and under-performed, irking Gattuso, who appeared to criticise him afterwards.
“Some people misunderstood what I said about Bakayoko,” Gattuso told a media conference ahead of Friday night’s Serie A clash with Roma.
“I noticed he was upset when I saw him in training after the last match.
“I didn’t blame him. I never point at my players. I meant that it’s not easy to play in a new league and get used to new working methods.
“He needs time, that’s all. Bakayoko and this team have already improved a lot and I’m happy.”