AC Milan head coach Stefano Pioli noticed that Olivier Giroud did not appear as sharp as usual against Red Bull Salzburg and he now seems set to make a chance.
After scoring yet another goal in the derby win over Inter against Saturday, it was ultimately an anti-climatic performance from Giroud last night, especially considering Salzburg essentially had their two back-up centre-backs on the field after an injury just before the game for Wober and one in the first half for Solet.
The French centre-forward received only criticisms in the ratings published in the newspapers, so our colleagues at SempreMilan.it report how Pioli is reflecting on a change already for the next league match against Sampdoria at the Marassi.
The idea of the Rossoneri coach is in fact to let Giroud catch his breath, because he is understandably tired after the games against Inter and Salzburg.
That would mean Pioli would deploy Divock Origi, as the Belgian striker has fully recovered from his muscle issue and got himself very involved both in the segment he players in the derby and his spell in Salzburg.
Giroud’s always been a bit in and out from game to game, but it’s clear he does need a rest and we’re going to have to try Origi from the start at some point so this makes sense (if there’s any truth to it, the article is just speculation for speculation’s sake). Playing Zagreb (after they beat Chelsea) and Napoli in 4 days is going to need everyone available
Pretty much his entire career at both Arsenal and Chelsea he was called a “super sub” and rarely started matches; but rather came into the match 2nd half and scored many important goals. With Ibra injury, Rebic injury and Origi slow to recover from his muscle problem, he has had to play WAY more minutes than expected or hoped. He absolutely deserves a rest v Samp with this crazy packed schedule we have this year due to World Cup causing terrible calendar of matches. Glad Origi is fit enough to play.
And hopefully Rebic will be fit enough to sub in for Origi in the 65th to 75th minute rage. It seems like he is recovering and should hopefully be ready.
Start origi, he needs play time and maybe he’ll gain some confidence and start playing better when we need him. Giru as a sub if needed. He is 36 years old. Needs some rest.
Milan needs a clinical striker. So surprised why they didn’t go for Lewdenski or somebody on same par. Let’s see if Cardenalli will splash somebody to get ROI. It’s no brainer
Some money**