AC Milan face Rio Ave tonight in Portugal in the last test to qualify for the Europa League group stage.
Rio Ave vs Milan will be the last obstacle that separates the Rossoneri from the group stage of the Europa League. Coach Pioli knows very well that this is an exam not to be missed, and that is why he will deploy those who can offer him the greatest certainties at this moment.
With Ibrahimovic and Rebic out and Leao who has only recently started training with the team again, Pioli’s choices will be practically obligatory except for a big doubt. Pioli will have to make a tough choice between Castillejo and Brahim Diaz, with Samu in advantage over the former Real Madrid. Daniel Maldini and not Colombo will be the starting centre forward as against Bodo Glimt with Calhanoglu and Saelemaekers behind him.
Franck Kessie is truly irreplaceable in midfield. With him there will be Bennacer, who started from the bench against Crotone. Tonali did better against Crotone but the Algerian is currently in better physical condition. The Rossoneri number 8 will be on the bench with alongside Krunic, ready to take over during the match.
Among the posts there will be Gigio Donnarumma, once again the designated captain given the absence of Romagnoli. On the right Calabria, author of good performances in this start of the season, and on the left the usual Theo Hernandez. With Duarte, Romagnoli and Musacchio unavailable, Pioli will only be forced to re-propose Kjaer-Gabbia at the heart of the defence.
AC MILAN (4-2-3-1): Donnarumma; Calabria, Kjaer, Gabbia, Theo; Kessie, Bennacer; Castillejo, Calhanoglu, Saelemaekers; Maldini.
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