Week 3: Milan – Spezia
Milan won the week two match with another 2-0 clean sheet. The game was not spectacular by any means and Ibra’s absence, due to Coronavirus isolation, was felt with Rebic struggling in the focal point role. Bennacer was excluded from the starting lineup due to the very busy fixture list. Castillejo for the same reason as well but also because he has been in poor form. A penalty won late in the first provided a small cushion for Milan. After the half Diaz scored his first for Milan in an opportunistic manner. Rebic escaped what looked like a nasty injury at the time and Milan got the three points. The real drama came midweek with the Europa League playoffs at Rio Ave. The team looked mediocre and bound to fail the test. Last second drama and a history making shootout led to a win and the chance to spend a few million more before the transfer window closes on October 5th.
A day before the aforementioned window closes Milan meet another newly promoted team. Spezia have not been the busiest strengthening for life in Serie A but do possess a solid team who beat Udinese in week two. Three points must be the aim of course and it would make three wins to start a new season, a rarity in recent memory. Due to the busy schedule more changes are in the works but injuries still limit the option available to Pioli. One likely change is that Tonali and Krunic could be starters. The latter has been on the transfer block but looks to be staying. Kessie does need a rest and it is almost a luxury to be able to give him a game off. Elsewhere on the pitch the defense is still battered and bruised but help is on the way with Diogo Dalot completing his dry loan from Manchester United. The right sided former Porto man may not play a position that is currently needed but if Conti leaves his arrival would make a bit more sense. A central defender has been sought after and the latest name is Ozan Kabak. The Turkish prospect was close to arriving last year but apparently rejected the idea. A change of heart may be in the works. A transfer will only happen if Schalke make the price affordable. Up front Calhanoglu may be getting a rest too with Saelemaekers, Diaz, Leao playing behind Colombo. Ibra has been posting on social media that he has no symptoms and he showed off a luxury car he purchased on the occasion of his 39th birthday on October 3rd. The veteran will miss at least another week and be available only after virus tests come back negative.
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