Pioli smiles as Rebic brings back healthy competition to the left-wing position

Ante Rebic, who had a disappointing 2021/22 season, has started the pre-season in the best way possible with two strong performances. Although a lot can still happen, Stefano Pioli knows this could benefit AC Milan a lot. 

This past season, it was mainly Rafael Leao that had to do the work on the left flank and he did that tremendously well. However, on more than one occasion, the fatigue became apparent and Milan could have used Rebic in good form then.

As highlighted by our colleagues at SempreMilan.it, Pioli is very happy about the way Rebic has started this pre-season as he wants that healthy competition on the left. In fact, it could actually offload some pressure off Leao’s shoulders.

The pecking order is open as far as the manager is concerned. He doesn’t want to use the Scudetto season as an excuse for his selections: this is a new season and the players will have to show that they are up for it. Rebic’s revival, therefore, comes with perfect timing.