One area where Stefano Pioli finds himself not short on numbers is the centre-back department, as he has more than enough options at his disposal.
Ibrahimovic, Rebic, Mandzukic, Calhanoglu, Bennacer, Theo Hernandez, Tonali and Hauge were not available against Hellas Verona (the latter two were on the bench with Hauge coming on) so the so-called reserves took the field at the Bentegodi in Verona and offered a solid performance and a win.
As MilanNews writes, captain Alessio Romagnoli seems to have regained some confidence and clarity after being benched for the Roma game, as he appeared more attentive against Udinese and against Juric’s Verona. Together with Kjaer and Tomori he forms a battery of dependable defenders, with unique characteristics that blend perfectly.
Pioli mentioned the performances of Romagnoli and Tomori after the game: “I have always maintained that the hierarchies are decided by the performances. Tomori had an immediate positive impact, he has important characteristics that were missing. He also returned. Gabbia that gave us so much before the injury. I have three starters in defense, then I study the games and try to field the most suitable for the single game. Romagnoli reacted well, as a professional. It is important that the players do not lose respect and availability.”
Apart from some indecision by Tomori in the opening minutes and a header saved on the line by Krunic in the closing stages, the defensive performance was flawless. Tomori showed his qualities once again in speed and man-marking, while Romagnoli was determined in his interventions and confident in his advances.
Not only the centre-backs deserve a mention though as the midfielders also made a difference: Kessie, Meite and Krunic gave a huge hand in coverage and protected the back four. Despite absences and difficulties, Milan managed to return home with the three points thanks to an excellent game.
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