There had been reports Milan would switch to a three-man defence against Napoli in the absence of Rafael Leao, but Stefano Pioli insists they must ‘rely on our characteristics’ as a team unit.
It kicks off at San Siro on Sunday at 19.45 UK time (18.45 GMT).
Leao sits out a ban after his double booking in the win over Sampdoria, joining injured Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Ante Rebic, Divock Origi and Alessandro Florenzi in the stands.
Several alternatives were mentioned in the build-up to this game, including the transformation from a 4-2-3-1 formation to a 3-5-2 with Theo Hernandez in a more advanced wing-back role on the left.
However, speaking in his press conference, Pioli insisted he did not want to completely change the whole team just because one key player was absent.
“We have our qualities and our own characteristics, so it doesn’t matter who is missing,” said the coach.
“For instance, Alexis Saelemaekers is a right-footed player who can play on the left and cut inside to shoot.”
Charles De Ketelaere is the favourite to start in the trio supporting Olivier Giroud, after Brahim Diaz played in the Champions League win over Dinamo Zagreb midweek.
Junior Messias would complete the supporting trio, with the rest of the side unchanged.
The other option would be to start Brahim Diaz and keep De Ketelaere as the only real alternative to Giroud as centre-forward.
Milan (probable): Maignan; Calabria, Kalulu, Tomori, Theo Hernandez; Bennacer, Tonali; Messias, De Ketelaere, Saelemaekers; Giroud
Both Messias and Saelemaekers … oh lord.
@ Milan Fan Their goals in the champions league weren’t good enough for you?
O ye of little faith!
Given our limited options, I’d say it is good enough! Now we see what this Milan team is really made of.
FORZA MILAN 100%
Theo should replace Leao as LW. He play ahead in France national team. Balo can play as LB