Tactical Shifts and Injury Woes
AC Milan is currently navigating a challenging period marked by tactical adjustments and significant injury concerns. Coach Ruben Amorim has been under scrutiny for not imbuing the team with a clear identity, often altering formations based on opponents, and is reportedly unsure of his best starting XI [1]. The team recently shifted to a four-man defence, a change that yielded a 3-0 victory over Lecce before the international break [2]. However, this tactical fluidity has not prevented a series of draws, with the team unbeaten in Serie A but having shared the points in half of their fixtures [3].
The defensive line has been particularly hit by injuries. Matteo Gabbia, who made his first start of the season, suffered a suspected flexor tear in his left thigh and was stretchered off in the recent match against Sassuolo [3]. This adds to the concerns, as Alexis Saelemaekers is also dealing with an unspecified fitness issue [3]. In midfield, Yunus Musah is expected to step in, while Luka Modric was rested for the Sassuolo game [2]. Youngster Alphadjo Cisse, aged 19, was introduced when Milan needed a goal against Sassuolo, highlighting the reliance on various squad members [1].
Squad Dynamics and Transfer Rumours
Beyond the immediate on-field challenges, AC Milan’s squad dynamics are also in focus. Warren Bondo has returned to training with the first-team group after rejecting a contract termination offer [4]. However, Bondo is not eligible to feature for AC Milan in Serie A or the Europa League and the club will reportedly try to move him during the January transfer window [4]. This situation underscores the club’s ongoing efforts to manage its roster and potentially free up resources.
In terms of broader transfer speculation, Liverpool are reportedly interested in Barcelona defender Jules Kounde [5]. While this does not directly involve AC Milan, it illustrates the competitive landscape for defensive talent across European football. Meanwhile, Clarence Seedorf, a former AC Milan coach, has taken on a new role as head coach of Corinthians until the end of 2027 [6]. These movements in the managerial and player markets are part of the continuous evolution of football clubs, even as AC Milan focuses on their current campaign.
What it means
AC Milan currently sits in 5th position in Serie A with 12 points from 6 matches, reflecting a record of three wins and three draws. While they remain unbeaten, the high number of draws indicates a struggle to convert strong performances into maximum points. The team has scored 11 goals and conceded 5, showcasing a solid defensive foundation but perhaps a need for more clinical finishing. This inconsistent form has reportedly led to disappointment from owner Gerry Cardinale [1]. The upcoming fixture against Atalanta on October 18th presents another significant test. With key defensive players like Matteo Gabbia and Alexis Saelemaekers sidelined, and coach Ruben Amorim still seeking a settled lineup, Milan will need to find cohesion and resilience to secure a positive result against a strong opponent and improve their standing in the league.
Sources
- Football Italia: Cardinale disappointed in Milan as newspaper highlights four issues for Amorim to fix football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Amorim: ‘Milan system doesn’t matter as much as being aggressive’ football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Amorim: ‘Milan cannot concede that goal, sad for Gabbia injury’ football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Bondo returns to training with Milan after rejecting termination offer football-italia.net ↩
- BBC Sport: AC Milan keen on Scott - Sunday's gossip bbc.co.uk ↩
- BBC Sport: Seedorf back in football as Corinthians head coach bbc.co.uk ↩
