The next AC Milan match, when the Rossoneri return from the international break, will be one of those crucial ones: it's the derby against Inter, with the Nerazzurri hosting. Pioli's team already knows that they will face this significant event without one of their key players, Fikayo Tomori: the English center-back was sent off in the last match against Roma. Who will step up to fill his shoes?
Malick Thiaw's spot is confirmed for the derby.
As reported by La Gazzetta dello Sport, head coach Pioli can rely on the emergence of Malick Thiaw. The German central defender's meteoric rise last season is well-documented, and this season, he's reaping the rewards of his growth. Thiaw has shown exceptional prowess in the first three matches, surpassing even Tomori in defensive contributions. His recent call-up to the German national team for two friendlies is a testament to his growing reputation. His task will be formidable - containing the red-hot Lautaro Martinez, Serie A's most in-form player. Thankfully for Milan, Thiaw doesn't seem like someone who gets scared, and after facing Harry Kane in his Champions League debut and other great champions, he will accept this challenge too.
The battle for Tomori's spot is ongoing...
The other spot, Tomori's spot to be clear, is open and available. The feeling, even considering Pioli's choices in the first few matches, is that the role of the Englishman will be covered by Pierre Kalulu. The Frenchman is eager to find consistency after experiencing a bit of a rollercoaster season in terms of performance last year.
Against Roma, he came on for Loftus-Cheek to make up for Tomori's absence: he also made his entrance in the previous two matches. His 'opponent" at Milanello racing for the spot will be Simon Kjaer, who has been used with less regularity by Pioli and has given the impression of needing a few more minutes: in this sense, the call-up with Denmark can help. However, Kalulu remains ahead: no longer eligible for the France U-21 team, the 23-year-old stayed Milanello and will be able to work closely with coach Pioli until the big day of the match.
