Pioli totally overhauls squad for Inter vs Milan

AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli is set to make important tactical changes for the upcoming derby against Inter.

After the heavy 2-5 defeat at San Siro against Sassuolo, the Rossoneri, who have not found success for six games will face the Nerazzurri city-rivals. Inter vs Milan will be the main event of Serie A’s twenty-first round. Pioli’s side are in desperate need of points to keep themselves in the Champions League zone while Inter currently hold the second place.

Stefano Pioli has decided to totally overhaul his squad for Inter vs Milan and will deploy a 3-5-2 formation. Simon Kjaer will return at the heart of the defence alongside Pierre Kalulu and Matteo Gabbia. Theo Hernandez and captain Davide Calabria will be confirmed on the sides with Ciprian Tatarusanu set to protect the goal.

The biggest changes will take place in midfield, also influenced by the absence of Ismael Bennacer. Sandro Tonali will lead the department with Rade Krunic and Junior Messias. The Brazilian will play a bit more advanced than his department teammates. The change to a three-man midfield means that the attacking midfielders will not play in the derby with both De Ketelaere and Diaz will have to wait for their chance against Inter in the second half.

The big news is the benching of Rafael Leao. The Portuguese is considered the most dangerous attacking asset of AC Milan but has been underwhelming in recent games. The Italian coach has opted for two striker with Divock Origi set to play alongside Olivier Giroud. The Nerazzurri are the preferred victim of the French striker and Giroud hopes to find the back of again in Inter vs Milan.

INTER Probable XI (3-5-2): Onana, Skrinia, Acerbi, Bastoni, Darmian, Barella, Calhanoglu, Mkhitaryan, Dimarco, Lautaro, Lukaku.

AC MILAN Probable XI (3-5-2): Tatarusanu, Kalulu, Kjaer, Gabbia; Calabria, Theo Hernandez, Messias, Tonali, Krunic, Giroud, Origi.

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