A new era is dawning at AC Milan. Following a period characterized by managerial changes and inconsistent performances, the club has opted for a return to familiarity, appointing Massimiliano Allegri to lead the team once more. This decision follows a disappointing season that saw the Rossoneri finish eighth in Serie A, missing out on European competition. The move signals a clear intent from the club`s management, headed by CEO Giorgio Furlani and advisor Zlatan Ibrahimovic, alongside new sporting director Igli Tare, to bring stability and proven success back to the San Siro.
Allegri, who previously coached Milan from 2010 to 2014, securing a Scudetto during that tenure, returns after a recent departure from Juventus. His appointment is seen as a strategic choice by Tare, who sought a manager with deep knowledge of Italian football capable of delivering immediate results. The focus now shifts to how this experienced tactician will shape the squad and address the challenges that plagued the team in recent campaigns.
The Allegri Blueprint: Defense First
In his initial remarks, Allegri immediately highlighted his fundamental philosophy: defensive solidity as the bedrock of success. It`s a concept that might sound remarkably straightforward – “when you have the ball, you have to attack well and score goals; when you don`t have it, you have to defend well and not concede goals” – but it underscores a shift towards practicality and resilience. Allegri`s emphasis is clear: minimizing goals conceded is paramount. He pointed out that historically, the best defensive teams in Serie A are consistently title contenders. This focus suggests a more pragmatic tactical approach aimed at tightening the team`s structure and reducing defensive vulnerabilities, a notable departure from the more expansive styles seen under recent coaches.
Pulisic: A Central Figure in the New System?
Christian Pulisic, the U.S. international, is set to enter his third season with AC Milan, and this year appears particularly significant. While contract discussions reportedly continue, his role under Allegri will be closely watched. Pulisic has been one of the club`s standout performers since his arrival in the summer of 2023. Allegri`s tactical flexibility could unlock even more from the American star. Known for adapting his system to the strengths of his players, Allegri could deploy Pulisic in various roles, from his familiar right-wing position in a potential 4-3-3 formation to a more central attacking role behind the striker. The manager`s history suggests he values player quality and finds ways to integrate top talent effectively, which bodes well for Pulisic`s influence alongside Rafael Leao in the attack.
Midfield Reshuffle: Experience Arrives, Others Depart
The summer transfer window is already seeing significant movement in AC Milan`s midfield. The most high-profile arrival is expected to be Croatian veteran Luka Modric as a free agent. While not yet officially confirmed at the time of analysis, the move mirrors past strategies, such as bringing Zlatan Ibrahimovic back in 2019, to inject experience and winning mentality into the squad. Modric`s role is anticipated to be crucial, not necessarily as an every-game starter, but as a leader and tactical anchor on the pitch, guiding younger teammates like newcomer Samuele Ricci, reportedly signed from Torino.
Conversely, Yunus Musah appears likely to depart. Sporting director Igli Tare has been explicit, stating that Musah`s characteristics don`t align with the profile of the deep-lying midfielder Allegri requires for his preferred three-man midfield setup. Despite reported interest from clubs like Napoli and West Ham stalling, a transfer before the season begins seems probable, unless Allegri sees something in training that changes the club`s stance, a scenario he has demonstrated willingness for in the past with players like Weston McKennie at Juventus.
The Striker Question
Finding a reliable goalscorer remains a key priority. Santiago Gimenez, signed from Feyenoord in January, has shown glimpses of potential but has not yet fully convinced, scoring six goals in 19 appearances in his initial months. With the departures of Tammy Abraham and Luka Jovic, AC Milan is actively seeking another number nine. Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic has emerged as a compelling possibility. Vlahovic, who previously worked under Allegri in Turin and whose contract situation at Juventus (expiring 2026) might open the door for a move, could provide the proven Serie A pedigree the manager seems to desire. He could potentially partner with or alternate with Gimenez. A final decision on the striking department is imminent, but fans can anticipate a move that fits Allegri`s requirements for experience and effectiveness.
The Leao Conundrum
Another critical element for Allegri will be unlocking the full potential of Rafael Leao. The talented Portuguese winger has demonstrated flashes of brilliance but has also been criticized for inconsistency. Allegri has publicly expressed confidence in Leao, stating, “I`m sure Leao will have a great season. I believe in him, I`m convinced. He`s coming of age.” The manager believes that, entering his prime years (26-30), Leao will exhibit greater responsibility. Allegri`s ability to instill consistency and maximum output from Leao will be a significant factor in AC Milan`s success this season.
As Massimiliano Allegri settles back into the hot seat at AC Milan, the club is undergoing a deliberate transformation. The focus is on defensive discipline, maximizing key individuals like Pulisic and Leao, integrating veteran leadership like Modric, and making strategic decisions in the transfer market regarding players like Musah and the crucial striker position. The season ahead promises to be a fascinating test of whether a return to a proven, pragmatic approach can swiftly return the Rossoneri to their desired standing in Italian football.
