Monza signed Southampton‘s Jay Robinson on a dry loan deal in the summer and the move is already paying off.
The transfer came at an key point for the club, who had just earned promotion to Serie A. More importantly, they hired ex-Saints’ boss Ivan Juric as manager, relying on his previous ability to over-perform with lesser teams.
Monza have found themselves financially strapped for a while, amidst ownership issues. Robinson’s move from Southampton cost them little, and they don’t have an option to buy.
Robinson emerging as a star
Early signs have been very promising and there is every chance the 19-year-old becomes a key player in this campaign.
He made his first Serie A start against Parma at the weekend. While Monza were held to a draw, he found the goal, helping Juric’s side to their first point of the campaign.
This came days after he also impressed in the Coppa Italia against Juric’s former club Torino. Robinson played in an attacking midfield spot – just as he did against Parma, proving to be regular attacking threat in the final third.
The Croatian was full of praise for him, telling the media – via Toro: “We played with very young players with great potential. We’re very satisfied. Robinson played a great game.”
He also expressed belief that Monza will bring more out of the teenager.
“He’s young and has great potential. I think we can get the best out of him”
Beyond that, Juric is trusting Robinson quite a bit, and he also handed him some minutes against Inter Milan,.
Player will be key this season
Monza didn’t exactly spend significantly in the summer and this could end up playing into the 19-year-old’s hands. He could become a central figure, and has found form and momentum at the right time.
Juric’s side are one of the favourites for relegation. This will allow Robinson to develop under the radar and grow as a leader and personality.
For Southampton, there is every chance the midfielder returns as a better player.
