After the proud and gritty display against Napoli, Massimiliano Allegri’s Milan face another major test on Sunday against Juventus at the Allianz Stadium. Both teams have gone through renewal, with new coaches and different players, so the match is expected to be very different from the uneventful 0-0 draws in April and November 2024.
Allegri prepares the anti-Juventus Milan
A lot may change between now and Sunday, especially regarding lineup choices, although many seem clear given the absences Allegri must handle. The coach is working on winning solutions, particularly on the wings, with Alexis Saelemaekers seen as a weapon against Juve’s defense. The same defense that in the summer was even ready to give up Vlahovic to bring in the Belgian, who instead stayed and carved out a key role for himself, as relayed via Milan News.
Alongside Saelemaekers’ pace and technique, Allegri will also rely on Christian Pulisic, Serie A’s top scorer. At 167 cm, he offers pure quality and can excel in tight spaces even against tall defenders like Kelly, Gatti, or Bremer (if fit). This sets up a strength-versus-skill battle that could intensify further with possible appearances from Leao, if he does not start, and Nkunku.
Strength and support for Luka Modric
Beyond the attack, the midfield is also under focus. Fofana will need to perform with more discipline than he did on Sunday, because Allegri must protect Luka Modric. At 40, the Croatian cannot be expected to handle another 97 minutes like against Napoli.
Modric should be allowed to focus on orchestrating play, which is why Allegri will rely on Fofana’s physical presence and on Adrien Rabiot’s energy and knowledge of both the club and the opponent.
