AC Milan trained at Milanello this morning as preparations continued for the game against Venezia on Sunday, which is the early kick-off.
The latest tactical revelation for Milan has been the switch to a three-man defence, which has yielded seven goals scored and just one conceded over three games against Udinese, Atalanta and Inter.
Kyle Walker made his full return to training which is certainly a welcome boost given that he can play as a right-sided centre-back in the new system, as he so often did with Manchester City.
However, there may well be a forced change given that Matteo Gabbia was forced off in the midweek derby win with what looked like a neck injury, replaced by Malick Thiaw.
Manuele Baiocchini spoke to Sky live from outside the gates of the training ground and offered a general overview of what Sergio Conceicao’s choices might be, with MilanNews relaying his comments.
“I think the three-man defence will be confirmed: he played three games and won twice, with seven goals scored. He lost the middle one against Atalanta, a slightly strange game,” he said.
“This system in general seems to guarantee a different defensive solidity, all the players feel a bit more calm and confident, with the three central defenders behind.
“For now the defenders have been Gabbia, Tomori and Pavlovic: Gabbia is not feeling very well, he has pain in his neck. This morning he started training again with the team but his neck is still sore.
“Malick Thiaw is doing very well and there could be a change there, in a formation very similar to the derby. I don’t expect big changes, everyone is doing well: Jovic is untouchable, Reijnders is one of the best midfielders in Europe.
“It remains to be seen whether Walker will play or Jimenez will continue to play, who has also shown that he can handle the 3-4-3 rather well: they could also be confirmed.”
I’d like to see Leao rested for this game against Venezia. He looked flat for much of the last game. Against Atalanta he had a lot of chances but either couldn’t finish them or was contained by Bellanova.
I think we need to be wholly invested in the final on May 14th. That’s the last chance. These other games unfortunately are irrelevant.
Immediate EL qualification with a win on May 14th’s final, or a potential long shot.
Yes, nearly the whole season will be determined on May 14th at this point. If we win, get into Europa League, and take home two trophies it will be inaccurate to call the season a failure. It will be actually remarkable.
If Gabbia’s neck is still sore, play Thiaw instead.
Conversely play Tomori in the middle, Walker as RCB.
Let Gabbia rest so that he can be at his best for the upcoming Coppa Italia Final.