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Stefano Pioli tested out a 4-4-1-1 formation in training ahead of the derby against Inter Milan on Sunday. The manager tested out a more possession based game plan with Hakan Calhanoglu as a trequartista and Giacomo Bonaventura on the left midfield spot. The team played with Zlatan Ibrahimovic as a lone striker. The formation could be a defensive plan to deploy during the game to strengthen the middle of the park and to stifle Inter's wing backs. What is certain is that Calhanoglu will play and will be expected to continue his scoring streak.
Pioli tested 4-4-1-1 formation in today’s training with Calhanoglu behind Ibrahimovic with Bonaventura as the left wide midfielder [Sky]
— Milan Eye (@MilanEye) February 7, 2020
The report from Sky Italia via MilanNews.it note that this formation excluded both Rafael Leao and Ante Rebic from the team. The probability of seeing this formation is still relatively low as Pioli has all the players available to run with the 4-4-2 that has served him well and where Milan are threatening on the counter attack. the game will likely see Milan on the back foot thus having the likes of Leao and Rebic on the pitch to inject pace will be crucial.