Week 29: Milan – Empoli

Milan shocked just about everyone by beating Napoli 4-0 away. The big win along with a return to form of Leao and a return to the back four was unexpected and, for Milan fans, a sigh of relief. Victor Osimhen’s absence had a part in Napoli’s loss but Milan got about everything right tactically with Pioli deserving of credit. Luciano Spalletti’s outburst after the game, aimed at Leao’s celebrations, was indicative of Milan’s dominance.

Before seeing if Milan can keep this new found confidence going versus Napoli in the Champions League quarter finals the rossoneri need to contend with Empoli. Kalulu and Ibra make up the injured list with the back four expected to survive. Maignan, Theo, Thiaw, Tomori and Calabria will likely keep their place. Bennacer and Tonali should make the pivot roles. The game versus Napoli featured Krunic in the pivot role pushing Bennacer sometimes more forward. Krunic, despite many critics, has showed his qualities but may sit this one out to reappear against Napoli in the middle of the week. Saelemaekers made a couple of Messi-esque runs and scored on one of them. His form was also jaw dropping and if he uses the confidence he showed last week Milan can benefit during these final weeks of the season. Leao scored twice and late in the week there is word that his contract extension may actually happen. Giroud should start up top and while his form is not exactly great he has surely shown more than Origi and the latter may even not have a future at Milan. Origi signed as a free agent last summer and, with a not so low salary, may be cut loose.

Empoli beat Lecce 1-0 last week. The win was their first since late January when they managed to beat Inter by the same score.

There is always more about this match and others on the forums.