As AC Milan preparing to meet Girona in a critical Champions League meeting at the San Siro, questions loom over whether Rafael Leao must carry the offensive burden alone. Head coach Sergio Conceicao has given a fitness update for Christian Pulisicwhose availability remains uncertain after a recent injury. Pulisic’s absence could force Milan to rely on Leao as they look for three vital points to improve their standing in the tournament.
Milan are currently 12th in the Champions League table, with 12 points, one away from the coveted top-eight spot that guarantees an automatic bye to the round of 16. A win against Girona would boost their chances of avoiding a play-off tie scheduled for January 30. Despite their recent success in the competition – highlighted by a stunning 3-1 win over defending champions Real Madrid in November – the Rossoneri must overcome injury setbacks for key players to maintain its momentum.
Christian Pulisic, Milan’s top scorer and assist leader this season with 10 goals and 7 assists across all competitionshas been sidelined with a muscle injury he picked up in a recent Serie A win against Como. Although scans showed no serious injuries, the team have been cautious about the 26-year-old’s recovery.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Sergio Conceicao spoke about Pulisic’s potential involvement. “We have practice tomorrow [Wednesday] morning; let’s see how it goes” said the Milan coach. “I don’t want to risk losing him for a month or two. If he’s 100 percent and can help, I’ll bring him to the bench – otherwise I won’t.”
The USMNT star missed Milan’s 2-0 loss to Juventus last weekend, and his absence was felt as the club struggled to create clear cut opportunities. He also missed Tuesday’s practice, further casting doubt on his availability for Wednesday’s game.
Leao to shoulder Milan’s attacking responsibility?
With Pulisic’s status uncertain, much of the attacking responsibility could fall to Rafael Leao. The Portuguese forward has been in fine form this season, but the absence of his American team-mate could make Milan’s attack more predictable against a Girona side desperate for points after back-to-back Champions League defeats.
The Spanish team enters the match rolling from one 4-0 by PSVwhile Milan have won four straight games in the competition after a narrow opening defeat to Liverpool. But with other injuries affecting the squad, including Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Samuel Chukwueze, the Rossoneri’s depth will be tested.
Options for Conceicao
To make up for Pulisic’s likely absence, Conceicao may turn to another American ace, Yunus Musah who has shown promise in adapting to different roles within Milan’s tactical framework. Noah Okaforrecently cleared for action after his failed exit, could also be in the starting lineup.
Young talents like Francesco Camarda could make his mark as Conceicao explores alternative options to strengthen his team. On the defensive side, injuries to key players such as Malick Thiaw and the suspension of Fikayo Tomori add to the club’s challenges.
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