Week 35: Spezia – Milan

Most fears came to be realized when a Leao less Milan lost to Inter in the Champions League semifinals first leg. Inter’s two early goals sunk Milan to a 2-0 loss and recovering from the deficit in next week’s return leg will take a monumental effort. In between these games is another meeting with a lowly team. Spezia are in a relegation fight and as is often the case one can expect Milan to struggle to break down such a team. For the same aforementioned reason Pioli will rotate and rest. Recent results when doing so have led to even poorer performances and dropped points. Milan now risk missing out on the much needed top 4 spot and leaving the Champions League tournament empty handed.

Not surprisingly injuries have piled up once again. Bennacer injured his knee during the European derby and will require arthroscopic surgery. The Algerian is therefore out for a few months. Leao will not be risked in the hope that he will be close to 100% next midweek. Now Milan also have to contend with Messias and Krunic carrying knocks. Thiaw has a yellow cards suspension to add to Milan’s selection headaches. All this, ofcourse, leaves Milan with little options. It looks like Kalulu will play in central defense, likely with Tomori as his partner. Pobega might get a start. Vranckx is also a possibility along with Tonali. Up front Giroud is set for rest as the disappointing Origi gets another chance. Speaking of chances and disappointing this looks to be another for De Ketelaere. The Belgian is one of the best definition of ‘not settled’ and this is basically a lost season for the promising attacking player.

The hosts will be without Daniel Maldini who is carrying the muscular injury. Leonardo Semplici’s men have not won a match since they beat Inter in early March.

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