Forced lineup choices, no alternatives. More than ever, Milan need their number 10, Rafael Leao. He returned early from international duty, which turned out to be fortunate, and he has reportedly regained top physical condition, as confirmed by Massimiliano Allegri in yesterday’s press conference.
For that reason, Rafael Leao will start tonight for the first time in Serie A this season. Against Napoli and Juventus, Milan’s number 10 only played short and unimpressive cameos, which must now be erased with a strong performance against his former coach Stefano Pioli’s Fiorentina, as pointed out by Milan News.
Leao will lead Milan’s attack, but who will play next to him?
The initial idea was to pair him with the strength and forward runs of Ruben Loftus-Cheek, but the Englishman suffered muscle fatigue during yesterday’s training session and is not fully fit. Allegri and his staff will reassess him during the final session today, but if he is ruled out, Saelemaekers is ready to step in as attacking midfielder.
“Desperate times call for desperate measures,” one might say, but the Rossoneri coach has no intention of offering excuses. He is confident the team will deliver a strong performance if they follow the plan.
