Bartesaghi back in group training: positive signal ahead of the derby
Important news from Milanello just two days before the Milan-Inter derby: Davide Bartesaghi has returned to training with the rest of the squad, a significant step forward in his recovery. Just yesterday, the young Rossoneri defender had completed a personalised training session on the pitch, featuring running drills and ball work, but still away from his teammates. Today came the key breakthrough: a full group session, which bodes well for his inclusion in Sunday’s match-day squad.
Possible tactical choices for the derby
The big question on every Milan fan’s mind concerns the tactical decisions for the city derby. Bartesaghi will have had only a couple of training sessions with the team before the clash against Inter — a factor that might prompt the coach to think carefully about starting him from the off.
The alternative is Estupiñán, who has been tried in the role since Tuesday and therefore has more days of preparation under his belt alongside the rest of the group. A middle-ground solution is also possible, a rotation between the two: Estupiñán starting with Bartesaghi ready to come on in the second half, or vice versa.
Bartesaghi’s importance as a defensive option
There is another crucial element to consider. The absence of Gabbia makes Bartesaghi the only available alternative in the centre-back position. This factor could prove decisive: having him at least on the bench would provide essential cover in case of any in-game emergencies.
The derby will be played at San Siro, where the stadium is expected to be completely sold out. The atmosphere promises to be electric: the Milan derby remains one of Italian football’s most eagerly awaited fixtures, and the Rossoneri faithful are ready to back the team with all their passion.
Looking ahead to matchday eve: press conference awaited
Definitive answers will come tomorrow, when the pre-match press conference should clear up the remaining doubts about the starting line-up. In the meantime, Bartesaghi’s return to group training is undoubtedly the most encouraging piece of news on this penultimate day before the derby. A recovery that, regardless of the final decision on the starting eleven, gives Milan an extra option to face the derby with greater confidence.
