8 months after a most exciting Derby della Madoninna, the two enemy brothers meet again. AC Milan have had a perfect start to the season – 3 wins in as many games – but have yet to face any real adversity. As for Inter, the scudetto goal necessarily involves a victory in this match with its always particular flavor. Here are the three players to watch at the Rossoneri.
Hakan Calhanoglu
Since his arrival in Lombardy, the Turk has been connected to alternating current. Watchers can see him activate his “super sayan” mode and then become Casper the Friendly Ghost in less time than it takes to tell. But, it is clear that under the orders of Stefano Pioli, Calhanoglu shows consistency.
While number 10 seemed too heavy to carry, the Turkish maestro finally does justice to this number. With only one goal in Serie A, the Turk has to take inspiration from what he is achieving in the Europa League. The small European Cup saw him score 4 times and distribute 3 offerings. Of course, Shamrock Rovers, Bodø / Glimt and Rio Ave do not box in the same category as Inter but Calhanoglu must demonstrate that he knows how to raise his level of play. Followers of international games know that he is capable of it when ‘he dons the turkey jersey.
On Saturday evening, he will undoubtedly be the custodian of the game and part of the scenario of the match will be written between his feet. It is up to him to break the lines and find the intervals between the interist defenders.
Theo Hernandez
Has he already disappointed in the Rossonero jersey? Barely arrived in Lombardy, Theo Hernandez pushes an amorphous Ricardo Rodriguez on the bench, then, outside Italy. Ditto for Diego Laxalt. The former member of Real Madrid and Alavès multiplies the crazy rides on his left side, alternating between goals and offerings. Author of 6 pawns and as many assists last year, he is already a reference in Serie A.
However, he doesn’t want to rest on his laurels and is already looking to do better this season. A not insignificant objective because it has Euro 2021 in its sights. The French therefore seeks to shine light on him to convince Didier Deschamps to take him into the France group.
However, he still has to improve his defensive position. Stefano Pioli often points out in a press conference his sometimes too broad marking. Sucked in by the ball and his offensive inclinations, Theo abandons the players in his area. However, when we look at Inter’s offensive armada, the slightest mistake could pay cash.
Zlatan Ibrahimovic
39 years old and yet the Z remains essential for AC Milan. Apart from his brilliant statistics – 14 goals in 22 games since his return to Lombardy – Zlatan Ibrahimovic shines as much by his presence as by his absence.
When he is on the pitch, the Rossoneri seem transcended by the energy the Swede exudes. More enterprising, more creative, the face shown is that of a “Milan da scudetto”. However, it’s a different story without him.
The sluggish matches against Bodø / Glimt and the big scare against Rio Ave are the best examples of “Ibra-addiction”. Finally cured of COVID-19, Zlatan should be lined up from the start. He will certainly be looking to score against his ex while avoiding the unpleasant feeling of the last time.
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