Today's print edition of Il Corriere dello Sport described Malick Thiaw's first start since injury as a disaster. It was a gamble from Stefano Pioli to risk starting the center-back in the match in Brianza instead of relying on him in the theoretically softer context of Rennes, where they will restart on Thursday with a three-goal advantage.
Simon Kjaer wasn't in the best condition, which is also why Pioli somewhat pushed for Thiaw's return to the field. Unfortunately for him, the former Schalke player was negatively involved in three out of four of the opponents' goals: the clumsy challenge on Mota Carvalho that led to the penalty, the nutmeg from Colpani for the second goal by the same Portuguese player, and also a missed clearance on Bondo for the 3-2.
Evidently, the brief appearance in the Europa League first leg was considered sufficient by Pioli to include Thiaw alongside Gabbia from the start. From being an added value as a backup in difficulty, the transition was quick. Conceding four goals in Rennes will certainly not be allowed. And on Thursday, the best Thiaw will be needed.
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