Chievo-Milan Preview: To Verona, With Love

Outside of Italy, most people probably associate Verona with the infamous star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet, as the city is the setting for Shakespeare’s epic love story. But for me, the only thing I can relate to as our team heads to Verona this weekend to play Chievo is that I may want to take my own life if we come back empty-handed. I know it’s not realistic after all we’ve been through this season, but I need a draw or a win from this match if I am to retain what little of my sanity that remains. So I send our players to Verona, with love… and a possibility that my love for Milan may end quite tragically.

Menez' reaction to the news that Cerci might actually be more self-centered than him

The Flying Donkeys come into this match in 16th place, with six wins, six draws, and 12 losses on the season. Last week they got a 3-0 pummeling from Empoli as Chievo travelled to the struggling side. However, prior to that, they had back to back wins against Parma and Sampdoria, so don’t jump to any rash conclusions. Playing at home gives them a definite advantage, as the Bentegodi is a fortress, fortified by fans as passionate as star-crossed lovers.

For last week’s match, Maran lined up Bizarri; Dainelli, Gamberini, Schelotto, Zukanovic, Radovanovic, Izco, Birsa; Hetemaj, Botta, and Meggiorini. Yes, that is the Birsa we know and loved, if ever so briefly. And you may remember a player by the name of Paloschi… you know that Inzaghi does, as he said the youngster was his heir. Paloschi came on as a sub in their match last week, as did veteran striker Pellissier. Additionally, their backup keeper is a youngster by the name of Bardi, who is on loan from Inter and would love nothing more than to keep a clean sheet against Milan. As if to mock our injury list, Chievo seem to only be missing Nicholas Frey to injury, while Botta is serving a suspension.

It will be bittersweet to see this guy, Chievo's top scorer this season

Milan’s injury list is getting shorter, but never fast enough. We are still missing Zapata, De Sciglio, El Shaarawy, Abate, Mastour, and now Rami to injuries. Armero and Agazzi are still doubtful, with Alex expected to be available, even if he likely still needs the mask. Paletta returned to training yesterday, and Mexes will also be available after serving his four match ban. I suppose it’s not as much who is available anymore, but rather who Inzaghi lines up. While we got the result vs. Cesena, he will need to choose players a little more wisely this time. And also start Cerci. Because apparently if Cerci doesn’t start, both he and his girlfriend are going to act like Interisti, and we can’t have that, can we? Or maybe Cerci will just be given the armband, as that seems like the reward for behaving badly this season.

"This isn't Shakespeare, it's football. Put away those ridiculous outfits and pass the ball already"

I’ve never seen a donkey fly, but I’ve seen Milan play this season, and a flying donkey may be more plausible than a Milan win. Despite the fact that we beat Chievo 2-0 at the San Siro in October, the team I love has been feuding amongst themselves worse than the Montagues and Capulets. So despite the fact that I’ve tried hard not to place any expectations on this team this week, I’m feeling a little desperate, like Romeo or Juliet. Please, Milan, don’t let this match end in tragedy. Please bring a result home for one who loves you so very much. And now, while “parting is such sweet sorrow,” I bid you farewell, sweet Milan. To Verona, with love.

This match inspired by the music of Romeo Void’s “Never Say Never”

Chievo Verona vs. AC Milan

Saturday February 28 • 20:45 CET (2:45pm EST)

This match will be shown LIVE on BeIN Sports in the U.S.