Week 17: Milan – Roma

Milan put the World Cup break friendly malaise behind and beat Salernitana in a good game. Chance conversion rate remains a problem as do the numerous injuries, Maignan in particular. Leao and Tonali helped Milan to another three points and a small step to catching Napoli as the Serie A leader tied Inter.

Roma presents a different proposition but a home game in front of a near capacity crowd will provide a good hand. On the injury front all Milan fans are familiar with a big and continuing list. Pioli has taken responsibility for the situation and work on reducing future injuries is under way, at least it is hoped.

Maignan seems further away from a return than he was one week ago and it is also one reason that Milan are rumoured to be looking to bring in Atalanta’s Marco Sportiello now and not in June. Florenzi and Ibra are still a month or more away. Joining them on the list is Origi, Krunic, Messias, Ballo-Toure, Rebic and Kjaer. Contrast this with Roma’s injury list … Georginio Wijnaldum. That’s it.

Hard work and motivation will have to drive Milan forward. The starters are unlikely to surprise as Pioli has little options. Tatarusanu will start in goalm with Calabria, Kalulu, Tomori and Theo in the back. Tonalis and Bennacer in the middle. The latter is apparently close to an extension that is set to include a €50 million release clause. Saelemaekers, Diaz and Leao will play behind Giroud with little to no space for De Ketelaere and Adli. The latter may join the ‘loaned out again’ ranks this January. Speaking of loans, Andreas Jungdal, the young keeper may go on loan as well. With a not so big prospect of a future return.

Roma sit six points behind Milan and beat Bologna with a solitary Lorenzo Pellegrini penalty in the 2023 Serie A restart.

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