Amorim: Europa is a crossroads for Milan, this match is crucial for the season

Amorim: Europe is a crossroads for Milan, this match is crucial for the season

Coach Ruben Amorim discussed the upcoming Europa League match, acknowledging the team's injury challenges. "Goncalo has nothing serious, but Chukwueze's situation is different and we'll assess it over the next few days for a precise update. Generally, all European teams competing on multiple fronts are facing injury problems, which is why we're managing rotations and preparing each player as best as possible," Amorim stated. He also confirmed that Cisse will start, but his exact role will be revealed tomorrow.

Milan approaches the match after a convincing away win against Salzburg, a positive result following a disappointing home opener against Benfica. However, two significant injury setbacks have compelled the coach to rethink his attacking options and right flank. Goncalo Ramos, who has a modest record of 3 goals and 1 assist in 9 appearances, is sidelined with a soleus muscle overload. He will undergo diagnostic tests to ascertain the injury's severity and will miss the game against Rose's team. Samuel Chukwueze, a starter in 6 of the initial 7 league games, did not attend Wednesday's training sessions due to left hip pain experienced after the home victory against Atalanta. The Nigerian forward is scheduled for a specialist consultation, with initial findings indicating a potentially serious injury that could result in a prolonged absence.

Amorim: 'A fundamental game for the season'

Amorim detailed his perspective on the crucial match. "I cannot say if tomorrow's game is decisive; we are only at the third matchday with many games remaining. We will face a team of a different quality, possessing great skill and known for their dangerous transitions. They have several top players in their squad. Of course, it will be a different game than usual, but we must be prepared to face it, to keep pace with their rhythm. I'm not calling it a 'win or go home' scenario, but it is certainly fundamental for us. It will help us gauge our team's current standing, test the squad, and ensure everyone is ready to compete at this level."

Amorim: 'Cisse is at 50%'

"This match is not necessarily decisive for the competition's fate, but it holds significant importance for our season," Amorim asserted. Regarding Cisse, he commented, "I believe the first step is to avoid overstating the situation and refrain from placing undue pressure on the younger players. Naturally, you journalists have your roles, but I'm referring to us as a club, as the technical staff. We must help young players understand that football is like a roller coaster, and circumstances can change at any moment. He is certainly at the beginning of a process, performing at 50% of his capabilities. He can shoot with both feet, but there are aspects he doesn't execute at a high level due to a lack of necessary experience. Therefore, we must grant him time, although overall he is performing very well and exceeding expectations."