The luxury of having options without necessarily having to settle on a fixed starting partnership. Milan’s midfield offers Ruben Amorim different solutions in terms of player profiles and how he wants to approach each match. Ahead of tomorrow’s match against Atalanta at San Siro, Adrien Rabiot appears to be the one guaranteed starter, having become a key figure in the Rossoneri’s midfield balance. The question is who will partner him, with several candidates in contention and the decision likely to depend on how the Portuguese coach expects tomorrow’s game to unfold.
Milan, Modric’s return depends on rest and the nature of the match
Luka Modric is in a strong position to return to the starting line-up after resting against Salzburg, where he played only a few minutes towards the end. The Croatian brings vision and the ability to dictate possession, qualities that could prove particularly valuable against a well-organised side such as Sarri’s Atalanta, as pointed out via Milan Press.
On paper, moreover, this is not expected to be a game played exclusively on the counter-attack. Such a scenario could leave the 40-year-old more exposed, forcing him to chase opponents breaking into space. If Milan can retain possession and dictate the tempo, Modric will be able to make the most of his qualities and help Rabiot build the team’s play.
Musah and Jashari are the alternatives, while Comotto waits
There is no shortage of alternatives. Yunus Musah offers energy and the ability to cover ground, qualities that could prove useful in a potentially demanding game from an athletic perspective. Ardon Jashari, meanwhile, is coming off a good performance against Salzburg and is pushing for another opportunity after showing encouraging signs.
Further down the pecking order, but waiting for his chance, is Christian Comotto. The young midfielder is eager to make his first appearance of the season and convince Amorim to include him in the rotation. It is difficult to see him starting against Atalanta, but he should have opportunities to play and impress both tomorrow and in the matches that follow.
