The Derby: Serie A Week 12

Milan followed the hard-won game versus Roma with yet more points dropped against teams lower in the table. The 2-2 tie at Parma had Milan throwing away a two goal lead and falling back to third in the standings. Inter meanwhile have surged back to the top and perhaps surprised a few on the way.

Injuries have played a part in the recent relative poor form but the manner in which Milan have dropped points this season is familiar to many and is something that stretches back to many previous seasons.

There is good news on the injury front at least and the international break has given time for some recovery. Rabiot and Pulisic are ready for action and their presence is very much needed.

Maignan will start alongside Tomori, Gabbia and Pavlovic as expected. The latter’s fight and hard running has been on display and saved Milan in recent matches. Saelemaekers’ willingness will be needed as well and he will start with Fofana, Modric, Rabiot and possibly Bartesaghi in the middle. Estupinan was the subject of several flop calls versus Parma and may find himself back on the bench for the derby. Fofana deserves the same tag but it remains to be seen if Allegri finds more room for Ricci and Jashari.

Pulisic is of course a starter and so is Leao. The Portuguese’s speed and skills will go a long way in deciding the derby. If he uses them well ofcourse. Gimenez is apparently nursing an ankle injury but no official timetable is available for his return. In these days of instant flops the Mexican may indeed not remain a Milan player for too much longer.

As mentioned above, Inter are having a good run. Cristian Chivu has so far managed to keep Inter moving well. Denzel Dumfries and Henrikh Mkhitaryan are set to miss the derby. The former has developed an agitator reputation and his past dwells with Milan players is now well documented.

Visit the forums to follow this match and everything Milan.