As Monza prepare to host Udinese in a pivotal Serie A encounter, both sides are grappling with injury concerns and tactical decisions.
Monza manager Alessandro Nesta is expected to field his strongest available lineup after rotating the squad midweek. Key players Milan Djuric, the team’s top scorer, and defensive stalwart Pablo Mari are set to return to the starting XI.
However, Monza’s injury list remains a concern. The team traveled to Bologna without Roberto Gagliardini, Matteo Pessina, Alessio Cragno, and Daniel Maldini. There’s a glimmer of hope for Maldini, who may recover from a muscular issue in time for the match. Should he remain sidelined, Gianluca Caprari is likely to deputize.
Caprari’s inclusion could prove pivotal, as he boasts an impressive record against Udinese. The forward has provided an assist in each of his last five Serie A starts against the Friulian side, matching a two-decade-old record held by former Lazio midfielder Luis Alberto against Bologna.
Udinese, meanwhile, face their own selection dilemmas. Manager Kosta Runjaic’s tactical approach is uncertain following last week’s experiment with a four-man defense, necessitated by Jaka Bijol’s suspension. The early red card to Isaak Toure disrupted this plan, and now Toure himself will serve a one-match ban.
The visitors’ woes are compounded by injuries to Martin Payero and Alexis Sanchez. Sanchez, in particular, has yet to make his second debut for Udinese, with recent reports suggesting his first competitive appearance may be delayed until January.
Monza (3-4-2-1): Turati; Izzo, Mari, Carboni; Pereira, Bianco, Bondo, Kyriakopoulos; Caprari, Mota; Djuric
Udinese (4-3-1-2): Okoye; Ehizibue, Bijol, Giannetti, Zemura; Lovric, Karlstrom, Zarraga; Thauvin; Lucca, Davis
