Pulisic Misses Milan-Lazio; Nkunku Favored Over Loftus to Partner Leao

Christian Pulisic will miss the upcoming match against Lazio due to a thigh strain. The American player, who scored the decisive goal in the last derby, has not been selected for this match. Coach Massimiliano Allegri has opted to replace him with Christopher Nkunku, who was acquired from Chelsea this summer.

Pulisic’s Injury Impact on Team Selection

During the final training session at Milanello, Allegri prepared his squad in light of Pulisic’s injury. While the rest of the team remains consistent with the lineup from the recent derby, Pulisic’s absence forced a tactical adjustment. Ruben Loftus-Cheek is expected to start on the bench, with Nkunku likely to take center stage alongside Rafael Leão.

Allegri’s Tactical Decisions

• Christian Pulisic’s thigh injury prevents him from playing against Lazio.
• Christopher Nkunku will partner with Leão in the attack.
• Ruben Loftus-Cheek may substitute for Nkunku or other midfielders during the match.
• Saelemaekers, who had back discomfort, has returned to full fitness and will start.
• Other players excluded from the squad include Gimenez and Athekame.

Allegri expressed caution regarding Pulisic’s condition; risking him could lead to a more serious injury. Nkunku, eager to score his first Serie A goal, hopes to capitalize on the opportunity against Lazio. He has only found the net once this season, in the Coppa Italia against Lecce.

Match Preview and Expectations

With ten out of eleven players remaining unchanged from the previous derby, the team looks to maintain continuity. However, Pulisic’s absence creates an opening for Nkunku to showcase his abilities in a crucial match for Milan. Fans eagerly await how this tactical shift will influence the game’s outcome.