AC Milan director Igli Tare provided insights into the team’s unexpected new attacking duo for the Napoli match and emphasized Rafael Leao’s crucial role, despite the challenges he has faced this season.
The game against Napoli, played at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona, is a pivotal fixture. A victory would significantly boost either team’s chances of challenging current league leaders Inter, with only seven rounds left in the season.
Tare Backs Leao and Milan’s Strategy
“Both teams are top-tier, as the league table clearly shows, and we’re looking forward to a fantastic match this evening,” Tare commented. “With Juventus also securing a win, the league standings are getting very close, making a victory tonight absolutely essential for us.”
Given that Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic were not fully fit, the coaching staff introduced a fresh attacking partnership featuring Niclas Fullkrug and Christopher Nkunku. Tare explained, “We have a strong contingent of strikers, reflecting our squad’s depth, so these lineup decisions are quite understandable. Coach Allegri is fortunate to have such a wide array of options available to him today.” He further noted, “My focus is always forward, not backward. Competing in a stadium with such a vibrant atmosphere is truly inspiring for any player. We are determined to do everything in our power to secure a win tonight.”
When asked about Leao’s performance, particularly in the False 9 role versus his preferred left wing, Tare stated, “It feels like we talk about Leao every week, but his inherent quality is beyond question. His main issue this season has been frequent injuries, which have hindered his ability to consistently perform at his peak. After two weeks out, he only had a couple of training sessions, but we still brought him along as he possesses the ability to impact the game even from the bench.”
Addressing concerns about these setbacks affecting Leao’s long-term future, the director concluded, “He has two years left on his contract and is an extremely important player for AC Milan.”
These two clubs have previously met twice this season. Milan secured a 2-1 victory in their Serie A encounter back in September (despite a red card incident), while Napoli emerged victorious with a 2-0 scoreline in the Supercoppa Italiana semi-final.
