Milan's Predicted XI for Liverpool Clash: Two Changes to the Defense

Key Players Return to Starting Lineup

AC Milan is set to make two changes to its defense for Tuesday's Champions League clash against Liverpool at Anfield. Fikayo Tomori and Davide Calabria are expected to return to the starting lineup after recovering from injuries. Tomori has been out with a hamstring injury since the end of August, while Calabria has been sidelined with a calf problem since early September. Their return will be a major boost for Milan, who have struggled defensively in their absence.

In their place, Pierre Kalulu and Sergiño Dest have started the last three games. While they have performed admirably, Tomori and Calabria are considered to be Milan's first-choice center-back and right-back, respectively.

Predicted Lineup

Based on recent team selections and player availability, here is Milan's predicted starting XI for the Liverpool clash: * Goalkeeper: Ciprian Tatarusanu * Defenders: Davide Calabria, Fikayo Tomori, Pierre Kalulu, Theo Hernandez * Midfielders: Ismaël Bennacer, Sandro Tonali, Brahim Díaz * Forwards: Rafael Leão, Olivier Giroud, Alexis Saelemaekers This lineup is subject to change, but it is the most likely starting XI that Milan coach Stefano Pioli will field against Liverpool.

Key Battles to Watch

There are several key battles to watch in this match, including: * Tomori vs. Darwin Núñez: Tomori will have his hands full trying to contain Liverpool's new Uruguayan striker, who has scored five goals in his first seven appearances for the club. * Calabria vs. Mohamed Salah: Calabria will need to be at his best to stop Liverpool's star winger, who has scored nine goals in 11 games this season. * Bennacer vs. Thiago Alcântara: Bennacer will be tasked with marking Liverpool's midfield maestro, who is one of the best passers in the world. The outcome of these battles could have a major impact on the outcome of the match.

Conclusion

Milan will need to be at its best to get a result against Liverpool at Anfield. The return of Tomori and Calabria will be a major boost, but the team will need to perform well as a unit to overcome the English champions.