As Milan prepares to welcome Fiorentina to San Siro on SaturdayFans are still sunbathed in the glow of a lively 1-1 draw against rivals Inter in Coppa Italia semi-finals first leg. That result, but far from decisive, restored some faith in a team whose The League form has left a lot to desire.
With only nine matches left in Serie A and Rossoneri disappearing in ninth placeThe road to European qualification via the league is narrow and full of press. The team is sitting nine points in fourth placeAnd with Nine defeat already in the campaign, Any margin for errors have long disappeared.
Anyway, while most eyes are on the manager’s range choice Sergio ConcepticaoA special issue of looms before Saturday’s collision: What role will Christian Pulisic play in a Milan team that is still looking for consistency?
San Siro is waiting for an answer
There is no room for rotation without risk anymore. Milan’s Coppa Italia hopes to remain alive, but they must also attack the league on purpose. “If it is to be a miraculous effort to be in Europe next season, the first steps must be made tomorrow, ” wrote Milan News. The feeling is clear: Three points against Viola is not negotiable.
The defense will see a minor but remarkable change. Fikayo Tomori is expected to return to the starting lineupBut apart from that, the back line will otherwise remain the same: Mike Maignan in goalwith Kyle Walker, Malick Thiaw and Theo Hernandez forms the rest of the rear four.
In the midfield, Youssouf Fofana retains its placeBut question marks remain over his partner. Tijjani reijnders missed training Earlier this week due to discomfort, the door opens for USMNT International Yunus to go in if needed. The last call will be made just a few hours before the kickoff, depending on Reijnder’s condition.
In the meantime, Samuel Chukwueze will return to Start XIWrap up to the right flank after a magic formula on the side line. Rafael LeaoEver the attacking reference on the left, will retain its place – an important boost for the red and black wing players.
Pulisic’s role revealed – and a little history beckons
Concerning Christian PulisikThe mystery has been resolved. The American star will start centrally againReprise a role that has brought out some of their best performances. Placed behind the striker Tammy AbrahamPulisic is expected to connect the midfield and attack-one key creative hub in Conceicaos 4-2-3-1 system.
The consequences of this are not only tactical. With Nine Serie A goals and six assists Already this season, The 26-year-old is on the verge of American football history. “He could only be the second American player who reaches double digits for goals during two different seasons in Europe’s five best leagues in the 2000s,” noted Milan News. Only Clint Dempsey has achieved the urgency before him.
Pulisic has already scored 12 goals in all competitions 2023-24And he continues to silent doubt as once questioned whether his move from Chelsea to Milan was a step down. It has become clear that He is among the Serie A Giant’s most consistent attacking threatsAnd this match can add yet another highlight to a silent spectacular campaign.
To lead the line will be Tammy AbrahamFresh of points against Inter in the Midweek Italian Cup slips. His inclusion was never in doubt. “Tammy proved its value and will retain its place – and rightly,” A source near the club revealed. With Joao Felix and Santiago Gimenez are expected to start on the benchMilan’s attack may look a bit unconventional, but certainly dangerous.
