Games between AC Milan and Napoli are rarely without drama, and it is in the high stakes matches that AC Milan need their left flank to be at its best.
MilanNews recall how in the past two seasons games between Napoli and Milan have always been very heated. Two years ago the first leg at San Siro was full of controversy due to Kessie’s equaliser which was disallowed due to Giroud’s non-existent offside, while the return leg saw the French striker net a crucial winner.
Last year history repeated itself as Napoli won at San Siro while Milan triumphed 4-0 in Naples, before the historic two-legged in the Champions League quarter-finals which saw the Rossoneri triumph thanks to a 1-0 at home in Milan and a 1-1 away.
In all these matches who made the difference, be it goals, assists or performances of the highest level, were three players who, at this moment of the season, are experiencing a tough period: Leao, Theo and Giroud.
Last year, the Portuguese provided Bennacer with the decisive assist for the winning goal at San Siro in the first leg of the UCL clash, and for Giroud in he returns to the Maradona after scoring in the return leg. Theo, in all these games, showed the level he can play at.
The hope for Stefano Pioli is that Milan can replicate this level in Sunday evening’s match too. In recent weeks, on the other hand, neither Leao nor Giroud are finding their way to the net anymore and Milan need them back in form after the two consecutive defeats suffered against Juventus and PSG.
Even from Theo Hernandez, vice-captain of the team, everyone expects the usual technical and leadership strength that he expresses on the field. Napoli are an opponent that could help Milan recover, but answers are needed.
