Training got back underway at Milanello this afternoon and there are some early signs regarding how AC Milan will line up against Roma at the Stadio Olimpico on Thursday night.
Milan travel to the capital looking to right the wrongs from the first leg when Gianluca Mancini’s header was enough to seal a 1-0 victory for Roma, meaning a comeback is needed in the second leg to reach the semi-finals.
Sky correspondent Manuele Baiocchini (via Radio Rossonera) spoke live from Milanello this afternoon to give the latest in view of the game, speaking about the injury situation and the early clues regarding the line-up expected.
“Tomori returns from suspension and it is certainly good news for Milan. He returns to the center of defence and we need to understand who will partner him,” he said.
“Thiaw had some tests done yesterday: only cramps for him and he will be fighting for a place with Gabbia. As for Kjaer, the tests have ruled out injuries, but there is still a contracture. He will miss both Roma and Inter.
“The defence remains with its men numbered. Calabria will return on the right flank and Maignan will come back in, after Sunday’s pure rest.
“For the rest, Bennacer should return together with Reijnders in midfield. The attack should be the same as usual (Pulisic, Loftus-Cheek, Leao, Giroud), unless Pioli surprises us with Chukwueze instead of Pulisic or Loftus-Cheek.”
Milan will have to play a lot better than yesterday to prevent the nightmare scenario of an exit in a competition that they had prioritised in a tie against a team that are well below them in the table.
If Thiaw starts over Gabbia I’m officially on the Pioli out train
Indeed. Play Thiaw instead of Gabbia and we lose.
Thiaw being over Gabbia in the pecking order is completely incomprehensible. It’s crazy. Crazy.
Gabbia is MUCH better than Thiaw.
If Pioli can’t see it, indeed he needs to be fired.
This. Agree 100%.
Bennacer starting would be a mistake !!!
Given Chuk’s form, I don’t see why Pioli can refer back to Leao/Puli/Chuk instead of RLC?
Caldara for cb spot please
Can’t be worse than Thiaw.