Tactical Breakdown: Liverpool’s Strengths vs AC Milan’s Key Players

Liverpool vs AC Milan: Champions League Showdown at the San Siro

As the Champions League kicks off with a marquee matchup between Liverpool and AC Milan, fans from both clubs will be anticipating a high-stakes encounter. The two clubs share a rich European history, and with both teams facing unique challenges this season, the fixture at the San Siro promises to be anything but straightforward.

On the latest episode of AI Scouted on Anfield Index, hosts Dave Hendrick and Karl Matchett dove deep into the upcoming contest, breaking down key tactical battles and discussing Milan’s struggles early in the season. Their insights offer a comprehensive preview of what fans can expect when these two European giants meet.

AC Milan’s Struggles Under Paulo Fonseca

Milan’s start to the season under new manager Paulo Fonseca has been rocky. The decision to move on from Stefano Pioli has left many fans perplexed, and as Dave Hendrick noted in the podcast, “Fonseca is not a manager from the top shelf.” Hendrick went on to describe Milan’s performances as underwhelming, pointing out that despite a 4-0 victory against Venezia, the Italian side has struggled against better opposition.

Karl Matchett echoed these sentiments, stating, “I think this continues a trend of underwhelming managerial signings for Milan.” He noted that Milan’s key players have not clicked yet, despite a summer that saw them add some exciting names to their squad. Matchett added, “The weekend’s win against Venezia wasn’t a test… they looked fine, but it was against not a very good side.”

The Rafael Leão Conundrum

One of Milan’s key men, Rafael Leão, remains a topic of debate. While undeniably talented, his inconsistency remains an issue for the Italian giants. Hendrick was critical of the Portuguese winger’s development: “Leão is an elite player, but he struggles with consistency. On his day, he’s phenomenal, but you never know which version of him will turn up.”

In comparison, Matchett praised Liverpool’s more reliable stars, especially Mohamed Salah, whose consistency is rarely questioned. “We know Salah will show up and be a threat, even if he’s not at his best. That’s the difference,” Matchett remarked. Salah’s ability to impact the game, even when not scoring, could be key to Liverpool’s success in Italy.

The Battle of the Flanks: Salah vs Hernández

One of the most intriguing aspects of this clash will be the battle between Liverpool’s right flank and Milan’s left. With Salah in fine form, he’ll be up against one of the best left-backs in the world, Theo Hernández. Matchett called this matchup “one to watch,” noting that both players are capable of turning the game with a single moment of brilliance.

Dave Hendrick was quick to remind listeners that while Hernández is excellent going forward, he has defensive weaknesses that Liverpool could exploit. “Theo is a great left-back, but he has lapses in concentration,” Hendrick said. With Trent Alexander-Arnold also marauding down the right, the pressure on Milan’s left side will be immense.

Liverpool’s Champions League Strategy

While Liverpool are clear favourites heading into the match, both Hendrick and Matchett discussed the importance of managing the Champions League’s new format. With more teams and fewer immediate eliminations, Hendrick suggested that Liverpool don’t need to treat every match with full intensity. “You can lose four and still get a playoff spot,” Hendrick noted, indicating that the Reds might prioritize their Premier League fixtures in the coming weeks.

However, AC Milan cannot afford to take the same approach. Hendrick emphasized that Milan’s difficult start in Serie A could make this match crucial to their European campaign. “Milan have struggled, and they’ve got tough games ahead. They need to start getting points now, or they could be one of the big names that fails to get through,” he added.

Karl Matchett also pointed out that Milan’s fixture list, which includes matches against Juventus and Inter, could lead to some squad rotation. “There are questions about whether Milan go full strength or rest a few key players,” Matchett noted. With Milan’s inconsistent form, this could give Liverpool an edge at the San Siro.

Liverpool head into this match as favourites, but as both Dave Hendrick and Karl Matchett emphasised on AI Scouted, AC Milan still poses a threat, especially if their key players perform at their best. This Champions League clash at the San Siro will be a fascinating contest, offering fans a glimpse of how these two storied clubs measure up in Europe this season.