Week 22: Milan – Parma
A rare early afternoon game versus Parma feels like another chance for Conceicao and Milan to start a push for a top 4 (or as it is unfolding a top 5) spot and Champions League place. Having fallen to Juventus but beaten Girona the team needs consistency, effort and reinforcements too. Injuries have now eased though Emerson Royal got himself injured moments into the game versus Girona and perhaps days before being shipped out of Milan. The Brazilian right back has been labeled a flop and was to be cut loose six months after arriving. He may now become part of another summer of change.
Calabria, seemingly destined to leave on a free in the summer, looks to be the starter but recently signed Kyle Walker – complete with his chosen #32 jersey – stands to become a starter. The Englishman arrives from Manchester City with an option to buy in what is a familiar looking Milan signing. Thiaw is still out therefore Gabbia should partner Tomori at the back. Pavlovic had a somewhat praiseworthy game versus Girona but is unlikely to become a starter, he may not even remain at Milan much longer. Theo needs to rediscover his speed and with the speedy Walker on the other flank they could provide Milan with a dual threat. Bennacer and Musah are the expected pivots but Fofana may start instead of the latter. The Frenchman may not be risked because he is one yellow away from missing the Milan derby next weekend. Reijnders, Pulisic and Leao should get the start behind Morata. The rumour mill regarding a starting center forward role has focused on Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez. The 23 years old Mexican is the subject of a formal Milan bid but the Dutch team may not want to sell this January and will likely receive higher bids than any Milan offer any way. As history suggests one can never be confident about any player linked to Milan actually becoming a rossoneri.
Parma’s indifferent form and long injury list has them flirting with the relegations spots. Milan fans know what that could mean. Conceicao will not want to see more points dropped.
Follow this match and more, including the transfer window, on the forums.