Mike Maignan

CorSport: Pioli welcomes back a leader in Maignan – decision to be made ahead of Atalanta

It has been over five months since we saw Mike Maignan last play for AC Milan, and that wait should be ended very soon.

This morning’s edition of Corriere dello Sport (via MilanNews) recall how is was back on September 18 of last year that Maignan last lined up with his team-mates, and a few days later he would injure his calf in a friendly with France that began his long ordeal.

However the match with Atalanta on Sunday evening could mark the return of ‘Magic Mike’ even if everything is yet to be determined. The 27-year-old did the entire training session with the rest of the squad yesterday meaning he has recovered, but that doesn’t mean that he will necessarily start on Sunday.

Given that Maignan hasn’t played for five months it will be important to monitor his progress in the last three training sessions, with the medical and coaching staff having a big say. The primary objective was and is to have him ready for 8 March – the day of the return leg against Spurs – but having him play once or twice before that could be good preparation.

Pioli will not only be getting back his starting goalkeeper and one of the top 30 in the recent Ballon d’Or awards, but above all an undisputed leader of the dressing room and a player who leads out on the field too. His return will be fundamental, as will that of Alessandro Florenzi.

Tags AC Milan Mike Maignan
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