As Stefano Pioli decided to make ten changes to the starting eleven against Sparta Praha, Pierre Kalulu made his debut for Milan. He played from start in the centre-back role, which surprised a few.
When he was brought in from Lyon on a free transfer, he joined as a right-back and played in that position during pre-season. However, now he was given a chance in the middle and did surprisingly well, earning a 6/10 in our player ratings.
During today’s presser at Milanello, ahead of the Parma clash tomorrow, Pioli was asked about the Frenchman’s performance. He also explained why he decided to start him alongside Leo Duarte, rather than on the right.
“During training, due to various absentees, I tried him as a centre-back and he performed very well. He told me that he’s happy in that role. I liked it, it was a good performance. He could be an important defensive wildcard,” he said (via MilanNews).
It remains to be seen when Kalulu will make his next appearance for the first team, though his first impression was certainly positive. The schedule might be tight, but the competition is also fierce in his role.
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