Pioli explains reason for Reijnders absence against Atalanta: 'No physical problems'

AC Milan coach Stefano Pioli has confirmed that despite not playing a single minute against Atalanta on Sunday night, Tijjani Reijnders does not have a physical problem.

Speaking to the press after the match (via Calciomercato.com), Pioli was very honest about Reijnders’ omission from the starting eleven and the reasons for him being left on the bench.

It was a confusing situation considering Reijnders has been one of the most consistent performers this season for the Rossoneri.

The return to fitness of Ismael Bennacer and the emergence of Yacine Adli has seen the Dutchman have to work harder for his place in the team, and Pioli felt that Adli and others were better suited to the match against Atalanta, especially given how many games Reijnders has played in.

“He’s fine, he has no physical problems. He simply played the whole match against Rennes and Adli, for his characteristics, could do well against Atalanta,” Pioli said.

Milan started the game with Adli and Bennacer in the midfield, with Ruben Loftus-Cheek in a more advanced role.

It seems that with all of his options available, Pioli is still unsure which combination of midfielders works the best, meaning they will be tailored for each and every match, depending on workloads and the opponent.