Rafael Leao is one of the undisputed leaders of AC Milan’s attacking department, but in the past few months his output in the league has left a bit to be desired.
This morning’s edition of Corriere della Sera (via PianetaMilan) writes that the best version of Leao will be needed against Sassuolo this evening if Milan are to end 2023 in the right way, also because of the clouds surrounding the team after a difficult period.
Leao will take up the position on the left side of Milan’s attack while on the right side of Sassuolo’s trident will be Domenico Berardi, author of 11 goals and 7 assists against Milan and 12 goal contributions in the league this season, i.e. consistent output.
Stefano Pioli continues to draw a lot of criticism for his role in the results and the injury crises that have taken place this calendar year, but it is also true that he needs help from the leaders in the squad with a top four spot now in danger.
For today’s game, Pioli will rely on his three best attacking elements: Christian Pulisic, Olivier Giroud and Leao. The latter two, in particular, are in prolonged abstinence from scoring at home.
They have not scored at the San Siro in Serie A for four (26 August against Torino) and three months (23 September against Verona) respectively. An immediate reversal of the trend is needed, especially from Leao who is a metronome for creativity and such a potent generator of danger when at his best.