Why AC Milan are already questioning Emerson Royal following Tottenham departure

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Tottenham Hotspur offloaded Emerson Royal during the summer transfer window as the defender joined AC Milan.

Emerson moved to AC Milan in a deal worth around £12.6 million as the Rossoneri identified him as their number one right-back target.

The Brazilian was even given the number 22 shirt, which was also worn at Milan by legendary midfielder and fellow countryman, Kaka.

The 25-year-old managing to secure a move to the Italian giants came as quite a surprise with the full-back proving to be a flop in North London.

Tottenham shelled out £45 million to replace him with Pedro Porro and last season, Emerson made just 13 starts in all competitions as he fell out of favour with Ange Postecoglou.

Milan have not made a good start to the season having failed to win any of their opening three matches and the team having conceded twice in each game. In particular, Emerson’s performances have drawn shocking reviews from the Rossoneri’s supporters.

Emerson Royal’s AC Milan performances given shocking verdict

The Athletic’s Italian football expert James Horncastle has revealed that Emerson Royal has been causing AC Milan real issues.

The Serie A side have been leaking goals down the right-hand side which is where the defender has been playing.

Milan drew their opening match against Tornio 2-2 before Emerson debuted in a 2-1 defeat away at Parma. He was then involved again as Milan drew 2-2 with Lazio. Paulo Fonseca’s side currently sit 14th after three matches.

Horncastle told the Athletic: “Milan keep conceding the same goal too, down Emerson Royal’s side. His £12.6m signing from Tottenham Hotspur looks like the biggest donation in the history of Fondazione Milan as the club charitably tries to make his wish to become a footballer come true.”

Tottenham facing defensive woes of their own

Postecoglou’s team have been suffering defensive issues of their own with their defeat away at Newcastle United highlighting how easy they are to exploit.

Spurs dominated the majority of proceedings at St James’ Park but failed to make count their 66 percent possession and 20 attempts at goal.

Newcastle had two major chances in the second half as simple balls in behind for Alexander Isak caused chaos in Tottenham’s back-line.

The Swede was denied the first time by an incredible recovery tackle from Radu Dragusin, however, the second opportunity saw Jacob Murphy assist him for a simple tap-in. Meanwhile, Destiny Udogie was caught in possession for the first goal.

Postecoglou should be afforded time to continue working on his side’s defensive deficiencies, although just how easy they are to play against is rather alarming.