Milan – Juventus Serie A Week 34
The 4-3-3 was abandoned following a the humiliation versus Juventus. The 3-5-2 returned and a mostly lackluster Milan managed to eek out a win at Verona. Leao and the attacking phase were mostly uninspiring barring the Portuguese’s assist to Rabiot for the only goal of the week 33 game. The team is considered somewhat safe for a top four and Champions League spaces but points are needed to ensure the stated aim and European riches return to the San Siro next season.
The lneup didn’t hold many surprises last weekend and it is ot expected to do this week either. Athekame was a somewhat unexpected starter but Saelemaekers’ form since extending his contract has been mediocre to poor and he only appeared as a sub at Verona. The Belgian is expected to start versus Juventus, if for nothing else other than superior experience. Fofana, Modric, Rabiot and Bartesaghi will complete the midfield five. For the same reasons as before Allegri is expected to keep faith in Leao and Pulisic up front. Nkunku and Fullkrug have not shown much to inspire confidence and Gimenez hasn’t really gotten much time since returning from injury to pick up any possible form. Whispers that there will be another “revolution” this coming summer with Leao an exit candidate. While changes – and of course strengthening – may be needed another so called revolution or perhaps year zero should be absolutely avoided. A constant player turnover is costly, not to mention the possibility of a new coach should Allegri leave. The latter seems unlikely even though some reports talk as if the Italy national team coaching job is very much Allegri’s to take. In the back Gabbia has shown to be a solid starter and while De Winter had many good weeks he perhaps need the bench time. Recent new father Pavlovic and Tomori are set to be the starting defenders.
Juventus have improved under Luciano Spalletti and made their way to European places. Dusan Vlahovic could be off the bench for the Old Lady.