Squad Updates and Injury Concerns
AC Milan is set to face Udinese with a mixed bag of squad news. Forward Gonçalo Ramos has returned to training and is available for selection after recovering from a minor calf injury that saw him miss the last match [1]. His return offers a boost, especially given previous considerations of Christian Pulisic or Alphadjo Cisse potentially starting as a false nine in his absence [1].
However, the Rossoneri continue to grapple with significant injury problems. Samuel Chukwueze is expected to be out for at least two months with a hip problem, with reports also specifying a hamstring injury [2], [3]. Long-term absentees include Alexis Saelemaekers and Matteo Gabbia [2]. Adding to their woes, first-choice goalkeeper Mike Maignan will be suspended for the upcoming match after receiving a red card in the Europa League [4]. The club has reportedly explored recalling Zachary Athekame from his loan spell at Olympique Lyonnais in January to address defensive depth, though both Lyon and Athekame are reluctant [3].
Form and European Struggles
AC Milan’s domestic form in Serie A remains strong, as they are still unbeaten this season [2]. This consistent league performance has seen them secure important results, including a recent 3-2 victory over Atalanta BC and draws against US Sassuolo Calcio, SS Lazio, and Juventus FC. They currently sit in 4th position in Serie A with 15 points from seven games, having scored 14 goals and conceded 7.
In stark contrast to their Serie A campaign, Milan has struggled significantly in the Europa League. The team has lost two of their three group stage matches [1], including a notable 3-0 defeat against AFC Bournemouth, where Mike Maignan received his red card [4]. This disparity in performance between domestic and European competitions highlights a challenge the club will need to address as the season progresses.
Managerial Changes and Transfer Window Outlook
Off the pitch, AC Milan is reportedly close to appointing Markus Krösche as their new Head of Football. Krösche, who recently departed Eintracht Frankfurt, is expected to be in control of the January transfer window, indicating a strategic shift in the club’s recruitment approach [5]. This move suggests Milan is looking to strengthen its administrative structure and planning for future squad development.
The upcoming transfer window will be crucial for Milan, especially given the current injury crisis. The potential recall of Athekame, despite the reluctance from Lyon and the player, underscores the immediate need for defensive reinforcements. Krösche’s influence will be pivotal in navigating these challenges and ensuring the squad remains competitive on all fronts.
What it means
AC Milan currently occupies 4th place in Serie A with 15 points from seven matches, boasting an unbeaten league record of four wins and three draws. Their form shows resilience, with recent results including a 3-2 home win against Atalanta BC and a 1-1 draw away to US Sassuolo Calcio. The next fixture sees them travel to face Udinese. Predict.game forecasts a Milan victory with a 58.0% chance, predicting a 2-1 scoreline. This match presents an opportunity for Milan to maintain their strong domestic run and consolidate their position in the top four, despite the ongoing injury concerns and the absence of Mike Maignan.
Sources
- Football Italia: Ramos returns to Milan training as Amorim assesses options for Udinese clash football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Milan team news: Ramos fit for Udinese trip but Chukwueze out for 2 months football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Report: Milan want to bring Athekame back from Lyon loan but face reluctance football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Maignan speaks out but doesn’t apologise after costly red in Bournemouth 3-0 Milan football-italia.net ↩
- Football Italia: Milan close in on Krösche appointment as talks reach advanced stage football-italia.net ↩
