Despite Mike Maignan being sidelined since September, Stefano Pioli believes his back up Tatarusano can get the job done
With Mike Maignan out indefinitely, fans were expecting Milan to sign a new goalkeeper but Stefano Pioli thinks otherwise.
Is Tatarusano good enough to fill in for Maignan?
Mike Maignan was injured during France’s Nations League win over Austria on September 22. Milan has ever since been without their No.1 with many fans wanting a new signing in January.
However, Milan boss Stefano Pioli refutes that, saying that they do not need a new goalkeeper, despite their poor form.
“The choice was mine and that of the technical team,” Pioli told the press ahead of facing Torino.
“We have faith in Tatarusanu and we think that Maignan could be back in action soon.”
When he was asked about a possible return date for the injured Maignan, he said: “I don’t know. His recovery is progressing well and he’s returned to the field, albeit not with the team.”
Pioli went on to give updates on Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Leao’s situations as well.
“He’s feeling better,” Pioli said of Zlatan. “His role in the side is to be a great motivator and a great player. He’ll be with us tomorrow because he wants to be with us.”
“Leao is important for me and the team,” Pioli said of Laeo, who has nine goals and seven assists in 28 appearances this season.
“He’s back from the World Cup and played well against Salernitana before losing a bit of his brilliance. He’s much happier when he’s playing, but I see a motivated and focused player.”
Milan are set to face Torino and aim to avoid their fourth consecutive loss in Serie A.
“They are a tricky team to play against,” Pioli said. “They have caused problems by pressing all over the pitch.
“We have to move a lot better and do something different compared to our past two games against them.”
