Leao fitness boost for Milan ahead of Napoli clash as Allegri ponders tactical shift
AC Milan manager Massimiliano Allegri has a full complement of five forwards available for selection ahead of Sunday's pivotal Serie A match against Napoli, with Rafael Leao showing positive signs in training after a recent fitness concern. According to reports from Milanello, the Portuguese winger participated fully in Saturday's session, moving well and engaging in one-on-one duels, though he is still considered unlikely to start given his recent lack of match sharpness.
With Leao potentially available from the bench, Allegri experimented with a three-man attack during an internal practice match. The setup featured Christian Pulisic on the right, Leao on the left, and Santiago Gimenez through the middle. In the opposing lineup, Christopher Nkunku operated from a wide position with Niclas Fullkrug centrally. This marks a potential departure from Allegri's preferred 3-5-2 system, which he has deployed for the majority of the campaign.
Sources close to the training ground indicate the trident formation is more likely to be an option for the second half against Napoli rather than the starting tactic. The final decision will be made following Sunday's last training session. The availability of multiple attacking options is a rare luxury for Allegri this season, who has often dealt with injuries within his squad.
The fitness of Pulisic is also a key point of focus. The American international returned from international duty in low spirits, according to observers, having not scored for club or country in six months. However, he was reportedly among the standout performers in Saturday's training, scoring the goal that concluded the practice match. A return to form for Pulisic at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona would provide a significant boost to Milan's ambitions.
The other attacking contenders, summer signings Nkunku and Gimenez, are seen as competing for a starting berth alongside Pulisic should Allegri opt for a two-man frontline from the outset. The match carries significant weight in the Serie A title race, with Milan needing a positive result to maintain pressure on their rivals. The tactical flexibility afforded by a fit-again Leao and multiple in-form alternatives provides Allegri with crucial strategic depth for a challenging away fixture.
The situation surrounding Leao's long-term future at the club remains a topic of speculation, but the immediate concern is his contribution to the season's climax. His ability to impact games, even as a substitute, could prove decisive in the final weeks. Milan's approach against Napoli will offer a clear indication of how Allegri plans to utilize his suddenly abundant attacking resources during the run-in.
