Who is stronger, Youssouf Fofana or Franck Anguissa?
The balance of Milan-Napoli might turn there. It is not only about muscles, physical strength, or stamina. It is about mentality, the ability to handle pressure, the composure to read the match and its key moments. Both sides have a strong midfield. Milan rely on Fofana’s strength, giving him a defensive role. They have also restored Loftus-Cheek, who struggled with injuries in the past. In tomorrow’s clash, it seems likely that Youssouf will be the “enforcer” from the start.
Experience will also weigh heavily.
Milan’s strength runs through Luka Modric, a refined playmaker with 34 trophies behind him. Rested in the Coppa Italia, he is ready to take back control. Alongside him is Rabiot, who has not missed a minute so far: three league games, plus 90 more in the cup. He offers stamina, strength, and balance. Rabiot is not only a runner, he can dictate tempo, connect phases, and break into the box himself. A midfielder with 21 trophies across club and country. Between them, Milan combine muscle with intelligence.
On the other side, Conte has reshaped Napoli’s core. In the 58th minute against Pisa, breaking his usual routine, he sent on Lobotka and Anguissa. That move rebuilt his “Fab Four”. Napoli no longer depend on the front three. The system now leans on midfield balance. Depending on the opponent, it can be fluid or physical, but always structured. At San Siro, Conte will again trust Lobotka’s control and Anguissa’s athleticism, mixed with the talent of De Bruyne and McTominay.
Conte’s Napoli reflects him. Strong, compact, resistant. Beauty is still in development, but the team has the tools to endure. The compromise is clear. De Bruyne’s creativity needs a base, and this midfield gives him one. Out goes the trident, in comes a 4-1-4-1 or something close. De Bruyne and McTominay get freedom to read the game.
Against Pisa, rotation forced changes. Gilmour and Elmas replaced Lobotka and Anguissa. But by the 58th minute, Conte restored his winning model. Nostalgia, or necessity, to regain rhythm and prepare for Milan. Tomorrow feels like a showcase match. Milan - Napoli will have the air of a gala night. The 'Fab Four' will be central to it. The spotlight is on.
Source: Gazzetta dello Sport in this morning's print edition.
