The 4-2-3-1 will remain the same as used by Stefano Pioli for Milan. However, the Portuguese coach, Paulo Fonseca, is studying a version of the Rossoneri with the center of gravity even more forward, taking into account the positive indications from this preseason, rich in satisfactions thanks to victories against Real Madrid and Manchester City. Above all, Chukwueze, who has been the best in the first three appearances for the Rossoneri.
On the right side, Pioli in 2023-24 found the most solid setup when he used Pulisic on the right, Leao on the opposite flank, and Loftus-Cheek behind the striker Giroud. The American ex-Chelsea player had the best season of his career and was used in forty-one of his fifty appearances precisely on the right wing. His qualities, however, allow him to cover all three roles behind the striker, just as he did both in London with the Blues and with the national team.
That's why Fonseca is considering centralizing Christian to leave the right wing to the Nigerian. Here's what he said, as we have relayed to you directly from New York: "Pulisic can play as a number ten," said the coach, "Loftus-Cheek can also play in that position." Naturally, Paulo cannot give up Loftus-Cheek because, in terms of personality, strength, and leadership, he is a cornerstone of the team. The Englishman could drop deeper and position himself between the two midfielders: next to Reijnders or Fofana, if the deal with Monaco materializes. And on the right? Naturally, Chukwueze, who had shown some interesting flashes with Rapid Vienna and was devastating against City (two assists) and Real Madrid (decisive goal).
While it is early to talk about a comeback after a forgettable 2023-24, for the Nigerian, this is still the... launchpad he had planned to exploit the available space, due to the delayed returns of teammates coming from Europe and the Copa America. His qualities have never been questioned at Milanello, but the important valuation that the Rossoneri gave him to snatch him from Villarreal (€20 million plus €8 million in bonuses) has ended up influencing him at least as much as physical problems, participation in the Africa Cup of Nations, and Pulisic's performance. However, Chukwueze now starts from scratch, with a strong desire to do well and... with Leao's "blessing," who exclusively told Gazzetta: "Samuel has more confidence, a desire to have the ball, and make a difference. He can have a great season. Pulisic? I prefer him as a number ten."
Milan's offensive Weight
It is clear that Milan with Pulisic as a trequartista and Loftus-Cheek as a midfielder is a team that brings even more unpredictability, breaks, and dribbling from the waist up. Also because on the wings, you must add the push from Emerson Royal (or Calabria) and Theo Hernandez. However, also pay attention to Saelemaekers, whom Fonseca would like to keep because he is also doing very well, thus providing an alternative to Chukwueze, with Pulisic always as a trequartista, or to Leao, since the Belgian can be used on both flanks as he did in Bologna.
Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport
