Tuttosport: Pioli protects Piatek in the XI; why Leao continues to struggle

By Isak Möller -

A matter of trust. Stefano Pioli continues to protect Kris Piatek in the starting eleven, in spite of the rough spell that the Polish international is going through. For Rafael Leao, on the other hand, things are even worse. 

As reported by today’s edition of Tuttosport (via MilanNews.it), Piatek is heading towards yet another starting spot, as the Rossoneri will take on Bologna tomorrow. Therefore, he remains ahead of Leao in the pecking order.

Despite many chances, the former Genoa man hasn’t been able to provide signs of an awakening. In fact, Kris hasn’t scored in the last six games, which has never happened for him in Serie A before.

The impression, as Tuttosport observes, is that the no.9 is throwing away the possibility of winning an important role in this AC Milan side. Especially if Ibrahimovic arrives, as the Swede would be more or less guaranteed a spot in the starting eleven.

As for Leao, his lack of growth is certainly part of the situation. Even though Pioli believes a lot in Piatek, thus favouring him, it’s also true that the manager currently doesn’t have a real alternative to the Polish international.

The young Portuguese, after showing great potential in a few games, hasn’t been able to repeat this. Per the report, he is struggling to establish himself in the squad, both in training and during the games.

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Tags Leao Piatek Stefano Pioli
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