AC Milan find themselves in a defensive predicament as they prepare for their upcoming Champions League match against Girona. The Rossoneri will be without both of their first-choice centre-backs, leaving manager Sergio Conceicao with a selection headache. Fikayo Tomori is unavailable due to suspension, while Malick Thiaw is sidelined with an injury.
The team’s woes extend beyond the defensive line, with several key players ruled out of contention. Samuel Chukwueze, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, and Noah Okafor are all unavailable, as is long-term absentee Alessandro Florenzi. However, there is some positive news for Milan fans, as forward duo Alvaro Morata and Christian Pulisic are expected to overcome their muscular issues and feature in the match.
Pulisic has been in fine form in European competition this season, netting three goals to share the top scorer spot with midfielder Tijjani Reijnders. Morata’s understudy, Tammy Abraham, has also been making his mark, finding the back of the net in his last two Champions League appearances.
On the opposing side, Michel’s team has received a boost with the return of Yaser Asprilla, who had been absent since before the Christmas break. Portu has also made his way back into the squad, strengthening the team’s options.
Abel Ruiz is likely to lead the line for Michel’s side, as fellow striker Bojan Miovski continues to struggle with an ankle injury. Full-back Miguel Gutierrez is facing a similar issue, potentially leaving a gap in the defense.
Arnaut Danjuma, who had been sidelined due to illness, is expected to be named in the squad. Despite limited starting opportunities, the winger has been a constant threat in the Champions League, taking more shots than any of his teammates this season. However, Danjuma is currently experiencing a goal drought in the competition, having failed to score in his last eight appearances. This dry spell comes after an impressive start to his Champions League career, where he netted seven goals in his first eleven matches.
AC Milan: Maignan; Emerson, Gabbia, Pavlovic, Hernandez; Bennacer, Fofana; Pulisic, Reijnders, Leao; Morata
Girona: Gazzaniga; Martinez, D. Lopez, Krejci, Blind; Solis, Martin; Tsygankov, Van de Beek, Gil; Ruiz
