According to Fabrizio Romano, AC Milan are back in the hunt for Chelsea midfielder Tiémoué Bakayoko. The Rossoneri are striving to build the strongest team possible due to their much-anticipated return to the Champions League, and have identified Bakayoko as an ideal option for the midfield. The Frenchman, of course, has experience with Milan, making this a potential homecoming.
AC Milan Going Back in for Tiémoué Bakayoko
The Fit
Bakayoko shone in his single loan year at Milan, during the 2018/19 season. Afterwards, he spent time with Monaco once again, and last season for Napoli. He was quite good for Napoli, and clearly, he’s accustomed to Serie A.
Although Bakayoko was fantastic with Milan, a purchase or loan does not guarantee a starting position. Franck Kessie and Ismael Bennacer are Milan’s preferred starters. Manager Stefano Pioli uses a 4-2-3-1 formation, calling for just two midfielders.
Pioli, however, will be given depth and more options. As of now, Milan’s only reliable midfield option on the bench is Sandro Tonali. A young player with tantalizing potential, Tonali still isn’t experienced enough for the biggest states.
Bakayoko brings in this experience. More than that, he’s a terrific defensive midfielder. He hounds the ball and opposing players like no other. In addition, he’s growing to become an attacking threat as well.
He solves another issue for Milan as well. Kessie and Bennacer will not be present in January during the African Cup of Nations. Bakayoko slides into the starting 11 here. Along with Tonali, they create a blend of toughness and creativity.
Depth is increasingly important for the Rossoneri. Playing in three competitions is gruelling. Depth, however, isn’t just a list of players, but a list of reliable ones. Milan is likely without Tommaso Pobega now too after his loan to Torino. Bakayoko becomes the de-facto first midfield name off the bench.
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