Against Atalanta tonight, an important name will likely not be in the starting lineup and that is Franck Kessié. The player is not in a good form and he has been like this for a few games now. The last defeat against Atlético Madrid made coach Stefano Pioli re-think his options in midfield.
For the clash against Atalanta, Pioli is aware of Gasperini's strength and he knows that individual duels will be fundamental to get the game going and that is why the idea is to rely on players who can offer more guarantees from a physical point of view.
The former Atalanta star will not be in the starting lineup, he will sit in the bench, reports Milannews.it. Instead, Ismael Bennacer and Sandro Tonali will lead the midfield.
This will also serve as a message, says the website. Kessie is experiencing a difficult time, between a poor physical condition and an unkonwn future. It is remarkable how much Sandro Tonali has grown and improved along with Bennacer who regained a good form. Then, there is Bakayoko who is looking forward to returning to the pitch again. This means that the Rossonero number 79 is no longer untouchable. Now, he must work hard again and fight for a starting spot like the rest of his teammates.
This also means that Milan does not want to be unprepared in case Kessié definitely rejects a contract renewal proposed by Paolo Maldini and Frederic Massara.
