AC Milan against Slavia Praha, with the midfield partner for Ismaël Bennacer, likely to be:

For AC Milan’s upcoming Europa League clash against Slavia Praha in the Round of 16, it appears that Stefano Pioli has finalized his starting lineup. Despite having a relatively easier opponent in Serie A this weekend, Pioli seems inclined towards fielding a strong team.

According to MilanNews, Pioli can almost field a full-strength eleven, with many players returning from recent injuries, except for Tommaso Pobega who is nearing a comeback. However, Pioli is cautious about rushing back players too soon, particularly in defense.

The expected lineup is as follows: Mike Maignan in goal, Alessandro Florenzi at right-back (with Davide Calabria rested due to suspension for the weekend), Simon Kjaer and Matteo Gabbia in central defense, and Theo Hernandez at left-back.

In midfield, Tijjani Reijnders will partner with Yacine Adli, who has been crucial in recent matches. Ruben Loftus-Cheek is positioned ahead of them as the Trequartista, with Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leao on the wings, and Olivier Giroud leading the attack.

Probable Milan XI (4-2-3-1): Maignan; Florenzi, Kjaer, Gabbia, Theo; Reijnders, Adli; Pulisic, Loftus-Cheek, Leao; Giroud.

Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan Defenders: Theo Hernandez, Fikayo Tomori, Alessio Romagnoli, Davide Calabria Midfielders: Ismaël Bennacer, [Adli’s midfield partner] Forwards: Rafael Leão, Ante Rebić, Brahim Díaz, Olivier Giroud

Please note that the actual lineup may vary depending on the coach’s decisions and player availability.