Liverpool vs. AC Milan at the legendary San Siro is one of the most anticipated matches as the Champions League starts.
With both teams having strong histories of competing in Europe against each other, this encounter is bound to be full of intensity, drama, and high stakes. AC Milan’s start to the season has been shaky, especially considering that they are currently undergoing changes under the new management of Paulo Fonseca. There is still disbelief in the AC Milan fan base regarding the decision to part ways with Stefano Pioli.
In their podcast on Anfield Index, football analysts Dave Hendrick and Karl Matchett discussed Milan’s inconsistent performances, despite their recent 4-0 win against Venezia. “Fonseca is not a manager from the top shelf,” noted Hendrick, adding that Milan’s performance against stronger opposition has been sloppy. Matchett agreed, stating that Milan’s key players haven’t yet found their rhythm, and while they managed to beat Venezia, the real test lies in facing tougher opponents like Liverpool.
The ongoing challenges of Rafael Leão’s inconsistency
The Portuguese winger, Rafael Leão, is not performing well from the start of this season. Despite his immense talent, Leão has struggled to perform consistently at the highest level. “Leão is an elite player, but he struggles with consistency. On his day, he’s phenomenal, but you never know which version of him will turn up,” said Hendrick. His performances vary greatly, making it difficult to predict how he will perform in crucial fixtures like this one.
In contrast, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah is a more reliable player, regardless of the circumstances, he still looks good if he isn’t at his best and continues to impress. Matchett noted, “We know Salah will show up and be a threat, even if he’s not at his best. That’s the difference.”
A key battle between Liverpool and AC Milan will be Salah vs. Hernández
One of the most fascinating tactical battles in this matchup will be the duel between Mohamed Salah and Milan’s star left-back, Theo Hernández. Salah, in top form, will test Hernández’s defensive capabilities. Matchett highlighted this clash as “one to watch,” emphasizing that both players can decide the outcome of the match. However, Hendrick pointed out a potential weakness in Hernández’s game, “Theo is a great left-back, but he has lapses in concentration,” which Liverpool could exploit, especially with Trent Alexander-Arnold also pushing forward on the right flank.
Although Liverpool are favourites in this match, Hendrick pointed out that, with more games and fewer immediate eliminations, Liverpool might not need to go all-out in every match. “You can lose four and still get a playoff spot,” Hendrick said, suggesting that Liverpool could prioritize the Premier League in the weeks to come.
This is a much less comfortable situation for AC Milan. After a rough start in Serie A and upcoming matches against Juventus and Inter, Milan needs to perform strongly in Europe. Hendrick remarked that getting points now is most important, while Matchett anticipated that Milan would have to consider rotation, a potential advantage for Liverpool.
As Liverpool and AC Milan prepare to clash at the San Siro, the match promises a tactical and emotional battle between two giants of European football. Liverpool enter as favorites, but Milan’s unpredictability, particularly if key players like Rafael Leão step up, makes this Champions League tie one to watch.
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