Rade Krunic got his second start in a row in a season-opening game as he and Ismael Bennacer were part of the midfield engine room during the 4-2 win over Udinese.
Sandro Tonali was forced to miss the game against Udinese, and MilanNews write that Krunic was entrusted with the task of partnering Bennacer because he is currently more trusted that newcomers Yacine Adli and Tommaso Pobega, with a midfield signing awaited from the market too.
Krunic is held in high regard by Pioli for his willpower, sense of position and his flexibility, which are typical qualities of players with great tactical intelligence.
Last season the Bosnia international covered almost all the roles, playing in the double pivot in round one against Sampdoria (among other games), as an attacking midfield, a left winger and even as a striker for a brief part of the game against Salernitana in December.
Milan almost always do well and collect points when Krunic starts, given that in 15 games there have been 11 victories, 2 draws and 2 defeats, one of which was the one against Spezia that came in unfortunate circumstances.