Derby Lineup: Hakan In AC Milan XI?

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Post on Feb 03, 2025

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Derby Lineup: Hakan in AC Milan XI?

The Derby della Madonnina is upon us, and the question on every Milanisti's mind is: will Hakan Çalhanoğlu start? The Turkish midfielder's form has been a topic of much discussion, and his inclusion in Stefano Pioli's starting XI is far from guaranteed. This article will delve into the potential lineups, weighing the arguments for and against Çalhanoğlu's inclusion, and predicting the likely starting eleven for AC Milan.

Analyzing AC Milan's Midfield Options

Pioli has a wealth of midfield talent at his disposal, making team selection a complex task. The battle for midfield places is fierce, with players like Sandro Tonali, Ismael Bennacer, Rade Krunić, and even Brahim Díaz vying for a starting spot. Let's break down the key contenders and their strengths:

The Established Duo: Tonali & Bennacer

The partnership of Tonali and Bennacer has been the bedrock of AC Milan's midfield for some time. Their strengths are complementary: Tonali provides the defensive solidity and physical presence, while Bennacer offers the technical brilliance and creative spark. Their chemistry is undeniable, making them the likely starting pair, barring injury or a significant tactical shift.

The Versatile Krunić

Rade Krunić is a valuable squad player, offering versatility and experience. He can fill in across the midfield, providing cover for both Tonali and Bennacer. His ability to adapt makes him a useful option from the bench, potentially coming on to change the dynamic of the game.

The Wildcard: Çalhanoğlu's Potential Return

This is where things get interesting. Hakan Çalhanoğlu's experience and attacking prowess are undeniable assets. However, his recent performances have been inconsistent. His inclusion depends on several factors:

• His current form: Has he shown the manager enough in training to warrant a starting berth?
• Pioli's tactical approach: Does Pioli see a place for Çalhanoğlu's attacking style within his preferred formation?
• The opposition: Inter's tactics may dictate whether Pioli opts for a more attacking or defensive approach, influencing Çalhanoğlu's chances.

Predicting the Starting XI

Considering all factors, a likely AC Milan starting XI for the Derby della Madonnina could look like this:

• Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
• Defenders: Theo Hernandez, Fikayo Tomori, Pierre Kalulu, Davide Calabria
• Midfielders: Sandro Tonali, Ismael Bennacer
• Forwards: Rafael Leao, Olivier Giroud, Brahim Diaz

This lineup prioritizes balance and experience. Tonali and Bennacer provide a solid midfield base, while the attacking trio of Leao, Giroud, and Diaz offer a potent mix of pace, power, and creativity. Çalhanoğlu might be a substitute option, ready to impact the game if needed.

Conclusion: A Derby Full of Intrigue

The Derby della Madonnina is always a fiercely contested match, and this year is no exception. The inclusion of Hakan Çalhanoğlu in the starting XI remains a point of speculation, dependent on his form and Pioli's tactical decisions. Regardless of the final lineup, one thing is certain: a thrilling and captivating match awaits. The anticipation is palpable, and the stakes are incredibly high. Who will come out on top? Only time will tell.

Keywords: AC Milan, Derby della Madonnina, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, Stefano Pioli, starting XI, lineup prediction, Sandro Tonali, Ismael Bennacer, Rade Krunić, Brahim Díaz, Inter Milan, Italian Serie A, football, soccer.