After their recent 2-2 draw with Lecce in Serie A, AC Milan faces a crucial league encounter against Fiorentina this weekend following the international break. The Rossoneri, currently sitting in third place, eight points behind rivals Inter Milan in the Scudetto race, are eager to please their fans at the San Siro and close the gap.
Fiorentina, last season’s Coppa Italia and Conference League finalists, are hot on Milan’s heels in sixth place, just three points behind. This sets the stage for an intriguing matchup at the San Siro on Saturday night.
Let’s examine how AC Milan might set up their starting XI against Fiorentina:
**Defense:**
– **Goalkeeper (GK):** Mike Maignan
– **Left Back (LB):** Theo Hernández
– **Center Backs (CB):** Fikayo Tomori, Malick Thiaw
– **Right Back (RB):** Alessandro Florenzi
Milan faces a challenge at the right-back position, a problem likely requiring a significant signing in either the winter or summer transfer window. Alessandro Florenzi’s ability to contribute offensively compensates for this, particularly with Theo Hernández on the left. The key focus will be on Malick Thiaw, whose performance could impact the game against Fiorentina’s Lucas Beltrán.
**Midfield:**
– **Central Midfield (CM):** Tijani Reijnders, Rade Krunić
– **Attacking Midfield (AM):** Ruben Loftus-Cheek
The midfield, exceeding expectations in the current season, features the influential Ruben Loftus-Cheek, providing a dynamic box-to-box presence and goal threat. Tijani Reijnders, a versatile midfielder, impresses with his all-around game, contributing both in attack and defense. Krunić’s defensive work rate is crucial against Fiorentina’s counterattacking threat.
**Attack:**
– **Left Wing (LW):** Noah Okafor
– **Striker (ST):** Luka Jović
– **Right Wing (RW):** Samuel Chukwueze
Facing an uncertain attacking trident due to suspensions and injuries, AC Milan relies on the potential of young talents. Luka Jović, a former Fiorentina player, can be a game-changer if in form. Samuel Chukwueze, despite injury setbacks, brings star quality to the lineup, having impressed against top clubs. Noah Okafor, showing promise for RB Salzburg, provides game-changing ability in the absence of Rafael Leão.
In summary, AC Milan’s lineup against Fiorentina hinges on addressing defensive concerns, midfield cohesion, and the unpredictable but potentially explosive attacking trio. The outcome may be shaped by the performance of key players such as Malick Thiaw, Tijani Reijnders, and the youthful attacking talents.
