AC Milan host Real Betis in the third round of Europa League group stage. The Rossoneri are in search of the third consecutive win in this competition.
AC Milan must bounce back immediately after Sunday’s disastrous derby defeat. The Rossoneri must forget the late k.o. against Inter and concentrate on Europa League’s upcoming encounter with Real Betis at San Siro.
The Spaniards currently occupy the second position in Group F with 4 points and a win today would close qualification for next stage. To achieve this goal coach Gatuso will rely on many “fresh” faces. According to Sky Sport Rino aims to make two changes in defense handing first minute starts to summer arrivals Mattia Caldara and Diego Laxalt.
The former Atalanta has recovered and is fully fit to replace Musacchio against Real Betis but that may be just the beginning. The 24 year old will challenge the Argentine centre back continuously for a starting jersey even in Serie A. If at any moment Caldara would have any fitness issues today Zapata would be ready to help. Laxalt instead replaces Ricardo Rodriguez.
Modifications even in midfield. Tiemoue Bakayoko will make another first minute appearances in Europa League. Lucas Biglia is expected to start too with Rino giving Kessie a rest reports Sky Sport. One between Jose Mauri and Bertolacci may have the opportunity to play but at the moment Bonaventura seems in advantage.
Regarding the wigs, coach Gattuso is considering to deploy both Borini and Castillejo. The Italian on the left and the former Villarreal on the right. The author of a goal and an assist this season will try to convince Rino that he deserves more space this season, not just as a substitute.
AC MILAN (4-3-3): Pepe Reina, Laxalt, Romagnoli, Caldara (Zapata), Calabria, Bakayoko, Bonaventura, Biglia (Kessie), Borini, Castillejo, Higuain.
REAL BETIS (3-4-1-2): Robles, Bartra, Mandi, Sidnei, Firpo, Carvalho, Lo Celso, Barragan, Boudebouz, Leon, Sanabria.
