Rotation against Hellas Verona, yes, but… not for everyone. Certainly for Christian Pulisic, who isn’t at his best and will need to be in top shape by Tuesday, when Milan cannot afford any mistakes against Feyenoordn failure would mean elimination from the Champions League.
Possibly for one of Tijjani Reijnders (more likely), who, aside from his suspension, hasn’t had a break in months, and Joao Felix. And Rafa Leao? Seeing him on the bench tonight against Verona would make quite an impression, as it would be his third exclusion from the starting lineup in the last four matches, following those against Roma (Coppa Italia) and Empoli, which preceded his start in Rotterdam. Yes, the Portuguese winger has been troubled by an ankle issue, but Sergio Conceição should also consider the psychological aspect, starting him from the first minute to restore some continuity.
Leao and Milan: ups and downs
Rafa has been pushing through recently, making a strong impact as a substitute against Empoli with the goal that broke the deadlock, and then starting at De Kuip, where he struggled to make an impact. Beyond his physical condition, Leao’s entire season has been a rollercoaster.
His stamp is on Milan’s two most thrilling wins of the 2024-25 season so far—against Real Madrid in Madrid and against Inter in the Supercoppa final in Riyadh. A series of dazzling plays at the Bernabéu, including the assist to Reijnders for the 3-1 finish; the run and decisive pass to Abraham in the goal that painted the Derby d’Arabia in red and black. Overall, the Portuguese forward has registered nine goals and six assists in 33 appearances across Serie A and cup competitions, but his inconsistency and mistakes have sparked debate. In Serie A, he has yet to score at San Siro.
Milan selections...
Conceição will bring back Musah, who missed the first leg against Feyenoord due to suspension, but the rotation logic could also benefit Terracciano and, possibly, one of Sottil or Chukwueze, who were tested together among the starters in a training session yesterday morning. The feeling is that the Portuguese coach will finalize his choices today, after the last training session, which, as usual, will also focus on set-piece situations. Meanwhile, first call-up for the recovered Bondo, while Jovic is out due to a muscle strain.
Source: La Gazzetta dello Sport
