CorSport: Pioli has a starting line-up in mind for the derby against Inter – the probable formation

The first derby of the season is just one week away, as the two teams are set to showdown for the first time since the Nerazzurri’s incredible comeback in February which saw them prevail over Pioli’s team 4-2. This time, however, the Rossoneri will be looking for revenge.

And for this revenge, as reported by Corriere dello Sport (via milanlive.it), Stefano Pioli already has a starting line-up in mind. A formation which will have to take into account many aspects, from injuries to Coronavirus positive players as well as the return of players from their respective national teams.

What is certain is that the team will start with the 4-2-3-1 formation, which has been very successful in the past months.

Donnarumma will defend Milan’s goalposts as always, while in the defence, Calabria will play on the right and Theo Hernandez on the left. Romagnoli will return to the line-up and will play next to Kjaer, but they will be the only two centre-backs at Pioli’s disposal, seeing as Gabbia has tested positive for Covid-19, while Duarte and Musacchio are still injured.

In the midfield, Pioli will count on the Kessie-Bennacer pair, with Tonali ready to take over throughout the match. Calhanoglu is certain to start as the attacking midfielder, while Castillejo and Saelemaekers are likely to play on the wings.

The starting attacker will be Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who has now recovered from Covid-19 and is ready to return to training this afternoon. Leao will be on the bench, while it should take a few more days for Rebic to recover from his arm injury.

Milan’s likely XI vs. Inter: Donnarumma; Calabria, Kjaer, Romagnoli, T. Hernandez; Kessie, Bennacer; Castillejo, Calhanoglu, Saelemaekers; Ibrahimovic.

 

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