AC Milan are preparing for their next league battle, and as always under Massimiliano Allegri, the talk isn’t just about tactics — it’s about balance, mentality, and that constant fight between optimism and realism. After the chaotic 2–2 draw against Pisa at San Siro, Milan need a response. Allegri knows it, the players know it, and the fans are demanding it.

The big news ahead of this match concerns the lineup. Mike Maignan remains the immovable presence between the posts — calm, commanding, and once again one of Milan’s most reliable leaders. The French goalkeeper has been one of the few constants this season, even as the team has struggled to find defensive consistency.

In front of him, Allegri seems ready to keep faith with the defensive trio that’s been evolving over the past few weeks. Matteo Gabbia continues to grow into a leadership role, while Strahinja Pavlovic has been a revelation — strong in the air, composed on the ball, and quickly becoming a fan favorite for his passion and work rate. The return of Fikayo Tomori, who sat out the Pisa game for rotation, should bring more speed and stability at the back. Allegri knows he needs Tomori’s recovery pace, especially against teams that counterattack aggressively.

The midfield, as expected, will remain untouched — and for good reason. Luka Modric, Youssouf Fofana, and Samuele Ricci have developed a chemistry that balances experience, energy, and creativity. Modric continues to dictate tempo like few others can, often acting as Milan’s true brain on the pitch. Fofana adds that physical presence and vertical drive, while Ricci is quietly doing the dirty work — breaking up play, recycling possession, and giving Allegri exactly what he wants: control.

Ruben Loftus-Cheek is back in the squad after recovering from his minor issue, but he’s likely to start from the bench. His return, however, gives Milan a key alternative — someone who can change the rhythm of the match with his strength and direct running, especially if the game becomes tight in the second half.

On the wings, there are no surprises. Alexis Saelemaekers will operate on the right, bringing his usual intensity and work rate, while Davide Bartesaghi keeps his place on the left. The young Italian continues to impress, showing courage and composure beyond his age. His duel with the opposing full-back will once again be crucial for Milan’s attacking transitions.

Up front, the pressure is mounting. Santiago Gimenez is expected to start once again alongside Rafael Leão, but the Mexican striker knows this could be a decisive moment for him. The criticism has been loud — fans and pundits alike are questioning whether he can truly adapt to Allegri’s system. Yet the coach seems willing to give him one last chance to prove himself. Gimenez’s work off the ball has been valuable, but Milan need goals, and they need them now.

As for Leão, it’s another chance to silence his critics. After scoring early against Pisa but later missing key chances, all eyes will be on him again. When Leão is on form, Milan are electric. When he disappears, the whole team suffers. Allegri has publicly defended him, reminding everyone that even the most talented players need time and patience. But the fans — especially after dropping points at home — want action, not words.

The predicted XI tells a story of continuity and trust:
Maignan; Tomori, Gabbia, Pavlovic; Saelemaekers, Fofana, Modric, Ricci, Bartesaghi; Gimenez, Leao.

On the bench: Terracciano, Pittarella, De Winter, Odogu, Athekame, Sala, Loftus-Cheek, Nkunku.

The injury list remains frustratingly long: Jashari, Rabiot, Pulisic, Estupiñán are all still out, and the medical staff doesn’t expect them back until after the November international break. That means Allegri will have to squeeze every drop of energy from the players available.

This game is more than just another Serie A fixture — it’s a test of Allegri’s ideas, a chance for Milan to regain confidence and momentum. The Scudetto dream might feel distant, but every point counts toward the Champions League race. Allegri keeps reminding everyone: “The target is 74 points and fewer than 25 goals conceded.”

In today’s video, we’ll break down the full lineup, discuss the injury situation, and look at how Allegri plans to fix Milan’s attacking struggles. We’ll also talk about what this means for Leão’s form, Gimenez’s future, and the importance of Modric’s leadership in this crucial stretch before the break.

#ACMilan #MilanLineup #Allegri #Leao #Maignan #Modric #SerieA #Gimenez #Rossoneri #ForzaMilan #OldHeartRossonero #Fofana #Pavlovic #MilanNews

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12 Comments

  1. One thing to take note of is EVERY team that we have not beaten has run a 3-5-2 formation against us. I think this is why we lose so much creativity because the midfield is completely flooded by both teams' midfield. So long as Allegri figures this out before our opponents, I think we'll be fine with the other teams in the league. This may also mean Inter match might be boring like Juve match.

  2. I may not know anything but I do know that every single club in Serie A is scared of this new Milan!
    Last season and beyond, we looked scared and unsure of what we wanted to do but today, I see these guys more locked in and a team to fear!
    Ever since we beat Liverpool at the pre season, I have been hyped up for the season…we’re not losing any game until January!!!
    Pin this!

  3. I think the team will be pumped and motivated to play and win because they are coming from a draw so they need to step up for the fans and the coach. Atalanta will not be easy to win, I hope we get 3 points and a smile on our faces.

  4. I am worried because if we win this game, we’re probably gonna be top of the league for the giant clash vs Roma, but the league is really closing out with us being 6 points from 11th. Now, This is not the Atalanta from last year with Gasperini and Retegui, but this is the only underrated team in the league so I don’t know what to think

  5. For once, I'm not worried about Atalanta.
    While a thin squad for now, we also had an extra day of recovery. I see a boring 1-0 (maybe 2-1), which will be fantastic

  6. Always love hearing your takes on Serie A games. I’ve got a question for you — do you think a player can really be a legend of two clubs?

    And what about players who’ve worn the colors of rival teams — can they still be considered legends of one of them?

    Personally, I feel like a player should only be a legend of one club, and it’s hard to call someone a legend if they’ve played for their rivals. Plus, I think you need to spend at least five seasons at the club and achieve major things — like winning trophies or even a Ballon d’Or — to truly earn that status.

    So, what do you think?
    Can players like Zidane, Ronaldo (Il Fenomeno), or Pirlo be considered club legends — and if so, for which club? Just to name a few