Bastoni suspended, the defense for Rotterdam is already set

The expulsion of Bastoni in the Champions League match against Shakhtar Donetsk complicates Chivu‘s defensive rotations at an already delicate moment of the season. As reported by Tuttosport, the backline has to deal with the prolonged absence of Pavard and Stones, both still sidelined.

For the two injured players, a return against Feyenoord at the beginning of November is the most likely scenario, with the Frenchman considered the most credible candidate to recover in time. Even if available, however, it is unlikely they would be ready to start from the first minute.

The defensive lineup for Rotterdam — a match once again crucial for direct qualification to the Champions League round of 16 — is already outlined: «Bisseck, Akanji, Carlos Augusto». The same players who, together with Bastoni, will also have to alternate in the following matches against Fiorentina, Venezia, and Milan, in a phase of the schedule compressed by the midweek round.

From the Under 23 squad, Bovio and Re Cecconi could be called up, but the main rotations will concern the players already mentioned. One more factor to consider involves Carlos Augusto: the Brazilian is currently also the first alternative to Dimarco on the left flank, a role in which he has already accumulated a good portion of playing time in this first part of the season.