CM: Probable Milan XI vs. Lecce – Pioli’s selection pushes €60m duo towards exit

By Oliver Fisher -

Rafael Leao is set to suffer yet another rejection from Stefano Pioli in view of Monday’s trip south to face Lecce, a report claims.

Without the injured Zlatan Ibrahimovic, the Rossoneri head coach has been forced into using a formation with one central striker again, and Calciomercato.com confirms it will be Ante Rebic.

The Croatia international wants to make up for being sent off against Juventus in the Coppa Italia and also wants to continue the excellent form he found before the break due to Coronavirus, always with a view to his possible permanent signing once his loan expires.

Leao will be disappointed again however, as he will start from the bench following a bad performance in Turin. He does not lack the technical and physical skills, but he struggles in character and determination. Milan invested €24million plus Tiago Djalo, and Leao is now likely to be put up for sale.

Theo Hernandez will start at left-back while Kjaer-Romagnoli will be the centre-back pairing. Andrea Conti will be right-back with Kessie and Bennacer the holding midfielders. Bonaventura will be playmaker over Paquetá, with Calhanoglu wide left and Castillejo wide right.

It is of course another big indication regarding Paqueta’s future, as Pioli would rather play a player almost certain to leave in two months than a €35m signing who needs to find form.

Probable Milan XI (4-2-3-1): Donnarumma; Conti, Kjaer, Romagnoli, Hernandez; Kessie, Bennacer; Castillejo, Bonaventura, Calhanoglu, Rebic.

 

 

Tags AC Milan Ante Rebic Rafael Leao
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