Ahead of their three showdowns with Napoli, Milan are reportedly shelving the three-man defence and returning to a 4-2-3-1 formation with Fabio Capello sure Rafael Leao and Theo Hernandez will be key figures.
These two sides will meet on Sunday evening in Serie A, then have both legs of the Champions League quarter-final to be played on April 12 and 18.
Stefano Pioli had adopted the change in tactics at the start of February, as it was during a particularly difficult period of form and seen as a way of ensuring more defensive solidity.
It also coincided with a run of fixtures against teams who played with three at the back, including Inter, Torino, Tottenham and Atalanta.
However, following the 1-1 draw with Salernitana and 3-1 defeat to Udinese, and preparing for this series of meetings with Luciano Spalletti’s Napoli, Pioli is reportedly going back to the 4-2-3-1.
Although Rafael Leao insisted he preferred that role and system, he has not scored for Milan since January 14 against Lecce, before the switch in tactics.
“The key for Milan could be taking control of the left flank with Theo Hernandez and Leao,” Capello told Sky Sport Italia.
“I saw Theo play for France and he makes the difference, while Leao with the ball at his feet can take men on. Milan need to be very wary of Napoli’s midfield and Davide Calabria will need help with Kvicha Kvaratskhelia.”
Napoli will also have to make adjustments after losing Victor Osimhen for at least a couple of weeks to a muscular problem.