AC Milan vs Lazio preview - Rossoneri start life without Mario
Posted Saturday, August 30, 2014 by PA
AC Milan kick off their Serie A campaign against Lazio at the San Siro on Sunday afternoon still adjusting to life without Mario Balotelli.
The Italy forward, who was the team's top scorer last season with 14 goals, joined Liverpool in a B£16million transfer deal earlier this month.
The Rossoneri look to have already secured a replacement, having agreed a two-year loan deal for Chelsea striker Fernando Torres.
As Torres finalises his move from Stamford Bridge, Milan coach Filippo Inzaghi is likely to field Jeremy Menez alongside Giampaolo Pazzini and Stephan El Shaarawy in a three-man attack.
Inzaghi, who was promoted from the club's youth team at the end of last season after Clarence Seedorf's dismissal, faces a challenging task to restore Milan's pride.
The Rossoneri endured a dismal Serie A campaign, finishing eighth, 45 points behind champions Juventus, and missing out on European competition for the first time in 16 years.
Full-back Ignazio Abate is confident his team can make amends.
"We have a great coach and there is a positive feeling in the group," he said.
"We start a new season convinced that we can do well. We want to bring back the fans to the San Siro.
"We expect a battle against Lazio but we are confident we can start on the right foot."
Lazio also have a new coach with former Bologna tactician Stefano Pioli having replaced Edy Reja this summer.
The Biancoceleste finished ninth last season and have brought in nine reinforcements, including Holland defender Stefan de Vrij.
De Vrij played in all seven of Holland's matches at the World Cup and will make his Serie A debut on Sunday.
Photos
More»
Olympic champion joins OnlyFans
Thursday November 14 2024
Cole Palmer and Kobbie Mainoo rock bold outfits in GQ shoot
Thursday November 14 2024
Your Say