AC Milan fans and management alike received some welcome news this week, as two essential first-team players made their return from injury, offering a significant lift to Stefano Pioli’s squad ahead of a series of pivotal fixtures in both Serie A and the UEFA Champions League. This development comes at a critical time in Milan’s season, as the team looks to capitalize on a strong start domestically while aiming to make strides in Europe.
These returning players, known for their impact on the field and leadership qualities, bring renewed strength and versatility to a team that has been managing without key personnel due to injuries. With crucial matches ahead, including domestic derbies and high-stakes Champions League group games, their presence will be invaluable. Here’s an in-depth look at how the return of these players could shape AC Milan’s upcoming matches, enhance tactical options for Pioli, and reinforce the squad’s aspirations this season.
Player Profiles and Injury Backgrounds
1. Rade Krunić – Midfielder
The first player making a comeback is Rade Krunić, the versatile Bosnian midfielder who has been a dependable figure in Milan’s midfield setup. Krunić, renowned for his tenacity, defensive contributions, and intelligent ball distribution, offers flexibility across the central and defensive midfield roles. While he doesn’t always attract the spotlight, his work rate and ball-winning abilities provide balance and security, allowing Milan’s more offensive players to advance with confidence.
Krunić sustained a muscle injury during Milan’s early-season fixtures, forcing him to miss multiple matches across Serie A and the Champions League. His absence was felt, particularly in games where Milan needed his defensive assurance and ability to disrupt opposition play. In his stead, Pioli had to rely heavily on a mix of younger players and new acquisitions who have shown promise but lack Krunić’s experience and tactical awareness. Now back to training, Krunić’s return offers stability to a midfield that has struggled for consistency and grit.
2. Davide Calabria – Right-Back and Team Captain
Joining Krunić in his return to the squad is Davide Calabria, the experienced right-back and Milan’s team captain. Calabria’s injury was a blow not only in terms of his defensive abilities but also because of the leadership and unity he brings to the squad. A product of Milan’s academy, Calabria has grown into a reliable and spirited player, anchoring the right side of defense while also providing attacking support when needed.
Calabria was sidelined following a ligament injury sustained in early October, which required careful rehabilitation and management to ensure a full recovery. While backup options such as Pierre Kalulu and Alessandro Florenzi covered his position, the tactical solidity and confidence Calabria brings to the defense were notably missing. His return will allow Pioli to field a more balanced backline and add composure, especially in high-pressure matches where leadership on the pitch becomes indispensable.
Impact on AC Milan’s Upcoming Fixtures and Tactical Adjustments
AC Milan’s next few weeks feature a series of challenging encounters both domestically and in Europe. With Krunić and Calabria back in action, Pioli has greater flexibility to tweak his strategies, especially as Milan seeks to close the gap with Serie A rivals and secure a competitive position in their Champions League group. Here’s how these returning players are expected to influence AC Milan’s tactics.
Midfield Depth and Defensive Stability
Krunić’s return strengthens Milan’s midfield depth and opens up more rotational possibilities, which Pioli will find invaluable given the congested fixture list. In addition to his defensive midfield role, Krunić can operate as a central midfielder, freeing Pioli to explore different combinations and avoid fatigue among key players like Sandro Tonali, who has shouldered much of the midfield workload during Krunić’s absence. Krunić’s work rate will be particularly effective in pressing-oriented games, allowing Milan to regain control in the middle of the park.
Calabria’s return, meanwhile, is expected to bring newfound stability to Milan’s defense. His defensive awareness and familiarity with Pioli’s system will be crucial, especially as Milan faces several attacks-minded opponents in the upcoming fixtures. With Calabria back, Pioli can also experiment with a more dynamic right flank, enabling Calabria to overlap and link up with Milan’s wide attackers, an aspect that adds depth to Milan’s offensive play. Furthermore, Calabria’s experience as captain brings a sense of cohesion and focus, which will be vital as Milan pushes to advance in the Champions League and secure crucial points in Serie A.
Champions League Prospects
With these reinforcements, Milan’s outlook in the Champions League appears considerably brighter. The competition in Milan’s group is fierce, with each game requiring a tactical balance between offense and a sturdy defensive backbone. Krunić’s return enables Milan to play a more secure midfield, reducing the risk of counterattacks and providing more options for Pioli in rotation. Calabria’s leadership and experience on the European stage will also aid in managing the pressure and expectation, especially in away games where Milan faces intense atmospheres.
Managing Fitness and Long-Term Recovery
Given the recent nature of their injuries, AC Milan’s medical and coaching staff will be cautious about re-integrating both players into full matches. Pioli and the medical team are expected to gradually increase their minutes, starting perhaps with substitute appearances or selected league games where the physical intensity is lower. For a team that has seen several key injuries, cautious reintegration is necessary to avoid setbacks, especially as the season progresses into its busiest months.
Krunić and Calabria, both known for their professional dedication, have been working closely with Milan’s medical team to ensure their fitness levels are optimal for re-entry. Their return provides Pioli with a broader selection, enabling Milan to avoid over-reliance on any single player in key areas—a factor that has led to fatigue and injuries in past campaigns.
Long-Term Outlook: AC Milan’s Title Hopes and European Aspirations
The comeback of Krunić and Calabria is more than just a short-term boost; it serves as a catalyst for Milan’s ambitious season objectives. With Serie A’s top spots contested by fierce competition and the Champions League offering high-profile challenges, AC Milan’s squad depth is critical. The addition of these experienced players will likely have a stabilizing effect, promoting both individual performances and overall team cohesion.
Krunić and Calabria are symbolic of AC Milan’s commitment to resilience and continuity, helping the club stay competitive as they strive to achieve both domestic and European success. Their availability also allows Pioli to experiment with tactical variations, ensuring Milan can adapt and compete on multiple fronts.
As Milan’s faithful anticipate a strong end to 2023 and an ambitious push into 2024, the return of Krunić and Calabria represents a significant milestone. With a nearly full-strength squad, Milan’s goals for this season—to secure Champions League progression, challenge for the Scudetto, and strengthen their identity as a European power—are once again within reach.
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