After the victory over Torino on Monday, Milan will now face Fiorentina on the 24th Serie A day. The match is set at the Franchi on Saturday, and it's a special match for Milan manager Stefano Pioli, as he used to manage the viola squad.
Milan has been enjoying a strong run -- 6 victories, 3 ties and 1 loss -- and are targeting the Europe zone in the standings. 5th place Roma is only 4 points ahead. During his press conference, Pioli announced that Milan will be without Duarte, Krunic, Biglia and Kjaer. The health status of Calhanoglu and Musacchio needs to be further evaluated.
Pioli will move forward with the 4-4-1-1. Donnarumma will defend the goal, with Conti and Calabria competing for a start on the right flank. Gabbia is likely to partner with Romagnoli in the central defense, with Hernandez on the left. The midfield will likely be composed of Castillejo, Kessiè, Bennacer and Rebic. Calhanoglu is the favorite to start over Paquetà behind Ibrahimovic. Below is the expected starting XI:
Milan (4-4-1-1): Donnarumma; Conti, Gabbia, Romagnoli, Hernandez; Castillejo, Kessié, Bennacer, Rebic; Calhanoglu, Ibrahimovic.
