Lecce face a significant defensive challenge as they prepare to host Monza at midday on Sunday. The team is grappling with multiple injury setbacks that could dramatically impact their tactical approach.
The home side will be missing two key defenders from their regular back four. Kialonda Gaspar and Antonino Gallo are both sidelined due to injuries, further compounded by additional absences of Lameck Banda, Kevin Bonifazi, and Filip Marchwinski. To add to the complications, potential defensive replacement Andy Pelmard is struggling with illness and remains a doubtful starter.
Despite the defensive challenges, Lecce does have some positive notes. Midfielder Balthazar Pierret has returned to full training, providing a potential boost to the midfield. Nikola Krstovic will lead the attack, having previously scored against Monza in both matches last season. Ante Rebic and Patrick Dorgu are expected to provide crucial attacking support from the wings.
Monza arrives with their own set of challenges. The team will be without injured goalkeeper Alessio Cragno and midfield duo Roberto Gagliardini and Matteo Pessina. Interestingly, the ongoing fitness issues of Gagliardini and Pessina might accelerate a potential loan move for Chelsea’s Cesare Casadei.
While veteran striker Milan Djuric might typically be Monza’s main threat, the spotlight could be on Greek wing-back Georgios Kyriakopoulos. His recent performance against Udinese saw him reach five goal involvements this season, matching his best Serie A tally to date.
Dany Mota and Daniel Maldini are set to support Djuric in attack, with Gianluca Caprari also in contention for a starting role. The match promises to be a challenging encounter for both sides, with multiple tactical and personnel challenges to navigate.
Lecce (4-3-3): Falcone; Guilbert, Baschirotto, Jean, Pelmard; Coulibaly, Rafia, Ramadani; Rebic, Krstovic, Dorgu
Monza (3-4-2-1): Turati; Izzo, Mari, Carboni; Birindelli, Bianco, Bondo, Kyriakopoulos; Maldini, Mota; Djuric
