Pioli sends strong signal with season-first snubbing of Leao and Theo

Stefano Pioli has decided to bench both Theo Hernandez and Rafael Leao in tonight’s game between AC Milan and Cagliari. It’s a season-first, given that one of the two has always started for the Rossoneri up until tonight. 

With greater squad depth compared to last season, Pioli hasn’t been afraid of making rotations this campaign, with mixed results. The Monza game comes to mind, making several changes despite having a 3-0 aggregate lead against Stade Rennes in the Europa League.

However, even in that game, at least one of Hernandez and Leao was on the pitch (the Frenchman). If the latest reports are true, therefore, the decision to bench both of them tonight will be a season-first in all competitions.

The duo remains crucial for Milan but it must be said that in the last month or so, they have struggled on the pitch. One can thus understand Pioli’s decision to shake things up, especially after six games without a single win.

Nevertheless, it’s clear that the manager will part ways with Milan at the end of the season. Sergio Conceicao is seemingly the top candidate, with contacts ongoing, and a termination of his Porto contract will not be an issue.