Milan are holding their breath ahead of the return leg versus Napoli, as Olivier Giroud couldn’t complete practice Sunday due to an Achilles tendon problem. The striker got banged up in the first match with the Partenopei on a tackle by Kim Min-Jae. He was available but unused against Bologna as he’s still in pain.
Per Tuttomercatoweb, the center-forward worked regularly with the rest of the group Monday, so he’ll be at least an option for the Champions League tilt. He might go through a final fitness test to determine whether he’ll get the nod or not.
If Giroud didn’t make the XI, Stefano Pioli would pick Ante Rebic over Divock Origi to lead the frontline. The Croat fared better than the teammate against the Felsinei. In addition, he’s more mobile and thus suitable for the game plan they have in mind for Tuesday.
Considering the small advantage they built last week, the Rossoneri will play on the counter. The ex-Fiorentina man thrives in those scenarios. On the other hand, he hasn’t scored or started consecutive matches since October.
Our Take on Milan, Giroud, and Rebic
Chances are the veteran will bite the bullet since the issue doesn’t seem too serious, but it’d be poetic justice if the Rossoneri were bitten by one of the biggest mistakes they made last summer in a crucial turning point of the season. Even though they are naturally great on fast breaks, they should be wary of leaving too much possession to Napoli and welcoming pressure.
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