Pulisic Illness Adds to Milan Problems Against Napoli

Milan's recent resurgence has been halted by an untimely blow, as star winger Christian Pulisic has been ruled out of their crucial Serie A clash against Napoli due to illness.

The American international has been in scintillating form for the Rossoneri this season, notching three goals and two assists in his last five league appearances. His absence will be a significant setback for Stefano Pioli's side, who are desperate to close the gap on league leaders Napoli.

Pulisic's illness comes at a particularly inopportune time for Milan, with the team already struggling with a number of injuries.

Key defenders Fikayo Tomori and Alessandro Florenzi are both sidelined with muscular problems, while midfield lynchpin Ismael Bennacer is also a doubt for the Napoli match. These absences have left Pioli with a depleted squad, and he will now be forced to make several changes to his starting lineup.

In Pulisic's absence, Junior Messias is likely to start on the right wing, with Alexis Saelemaekers switching to the left flank.

However, Messias has not been in the best of form recently, and his lack of goals could be a concern for Milan. Olivier Giroud will lead the line, with Brahim Diaz playing in the hole behind him. Sandro Tonali and Rade Krunic are expected to start in midfield, while Theo Hernandez and Davide Calabria will occupy the full-back positions.

Milan will be desperate to bounce back from their disappointing defeat to Inter Milan in the Coppa Italia semi-finals.

That loss ended their hopes of winning a first major trophy since 2011, and they will be keen to make amends against Napoli. However, the Partenopei are in excellent form and will be confident of extending their lead at the top of the table. Luciano Spalletti's side have won their last six Serie A matches, scoring 18 goals in the process. They will be looking to exploit Milan's defensive frailties and secure a crucial victory.

The match between Milan and Napoli is scheduled to kick off at 19:45 CET on Sunday, February 19.

It will be a fascinating clash between two of Serie A's most in-form sides, and Pulisic's absence could prove to be a decisive factor in the outcome.