Milan came from behind to beat lower-league Vicenza 6-1 in Saturday’s pre-season friendly, but it proved a ‘Pyrrhic Victory.’ As per Gazzetta dello Sport, Stefano Pioli’s side suffered two massive injury blows ahead of their Serie A opener against Udinese next week.
Junior Messias was on the scoresheet for the season warm-up fixture running before sustaining a muscle injury. The left-footed forward was in a scintillating form at the tail-end of last season and throughout the summer. However, he will likely have to stay on the sidelines against Udinese.
The same goes for last season’s Scudetto hero Sandro Tonali. The Italian midfielder had to leave the pitch early in the second half due to a muscle problem. The 22-year-old will undergo further checks to understand the extent of the damage.
While Milan remain optimistic ahead of Tonali’s medical examinations, Pioli’s side cannot take any chances in the market. With Tonali facing some time in the treatment room and Franck Kessie headed to Barcelona, the Rossoneri find themselves strapped for reliable midfield options.
Ismael Bennacer is available, which is perhaps the only positive. Yacine Adli, who delivered some eye-catching performances during the pre-season, could fill the void. But Milan must have another sustainable option in the middle of the park.
Reports are linking Milan with a move for Bordeaux youngster Jean Onana. However, talks between the sides have yet to gather momentum. The Italians are running out of time, and Paolo Maldini will have to do something quickly to keep the Rossoneri squad competitive.