Pioli considering 3 options to replace Leao for big Napoli match

AC Milan will face Napoli next week. Stefano Pioli is considering three alternatives to replace the suspended Rafael Leao.

AC Milan secured three important points against Sampdoria despite playing with 10 man for one half. Rafael Leao was sent off in the 47th minute with a second yellow card. A controversial decision that will keep the Portuguese left winger out for one match. The absence of Leao is a big problem.

The flamboyant winger has picked up where he left last season. Leao has scored 3 goals and provided 4 assists in 7 appearances so far. His absence has created a headache for Stefano Pioli considering that AC Milan will face Napoli next week. Both clubs are currently at the top of Serie A.

The AC Milan coach Pioli will have limited choices in attack with Ante Rebic and Divock Origi also expected to be unavailable. La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that the Italian is considering three option to replace Leao.

Continue with the 4-2-3-1 formation deploying Charles De Ketelaere as attacking midfielder, Messias on the right and moving one between Alexis Saelemaekers, Brahim Diaz or Yacine Adli on the left. That will the probably be the most likely choice as admitted by Pioli himself.

Another option is to switch to a 4-3-2-1. A three-man midfield has already been tried on one occasion. In this scenario it would be De Ketelaere and Brahim Diaz to play behind Olivier Giroud. The Frenchman will surely lead the attack once more.

The third alternative is to use a 3-5-2 formation. Three centre backs in the middle, with Calabria and Theo Hernandez more advanced. Three central midfielders in support of Giroud and De Ketelaere. The Belgian has already played in the false 9 position during his time at Club Brugge.

READ MORE: AC Milan make transfer promise to Leao