Barring any sensational twists, Rafael Leao will not even make the bench on Sunday night at San Siro against Bologna. The Portuguese forward has still not fully recovered from the calf problem he suffered on August 17 against Bari in the Coppa Italia, and so he will not be called up by Max Allegri. Who, then, will lead the attack against the Bologna team in the coach’s 3-5-2?
Gimenez the favorite...
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport this morning, the leading candidate to replace Leao and partner Christian Pulisic is Santiago Gimenez, fresh off his goal against Japan with Mexico. Much will depend on his condition after the two national team matches and the intercontinental trip back to Milan. The player has stated he feels fine, but Allegri’s staff will have to check his fitness closely.
Could Loftus-Cheek play as a striker against Bologna?
If Gimenez is not deemed physically ready, then the choice could fall on Christopher Nkunku. He is still not at full match fitness and has only one half of football in his legs. This opens the door to a possible surprise: Ruben Loftus-Cheek moving up alongside Pulisic. The Englishman started the season well, scoring against Lecce and earning a return to the national team. His natural role is in midfield, but if required the former Chelsea man would be ready to adapt to an attacking role, as relayed via Milannews.it.
