AC Milan manager Max Allegri is preparing for a decisive match against Genoa with several key decisions to make regarding his starting lineup, according to reports from Italian journalist sources. The Rossoneri need a win to secure their place in next season’s Champions League, having exhausted their bonus opportunities.
The team will be without Rafael Leão and Alexis Saelemaekers due to suspension after picking up yellow cards in the recent match against Atalanta. Charles De Ketelaere will likely fill in for Saelemaekers on the wing, while Leão’s absence will be offset by the return of Christian Pulisic.
Pulisic missed the Atalanta game with a gluteal muscle problem, but scans have cleared him of any serious injury and he is expected to start against Genoa. Christopher Nkunku, who made a positive impact coming off the bench against Atalanta, is also in contention for a starting role alongside Pulisic in attack. The forward line will likely be completed by Jovic and Füllkrug, available as options from the bench.
In midfield, Fofana is set to replace Loftus-Cheek, with Ricci expected to maintain his position in front of the defense. Veteran midfielder Luka Modric is pushing for a place in the squad, potentially wearing a protective mask if he is cleared to play following recent tests. In defense, Fikayo Tomori returns from suspension, displacing De Winter.
The Milan squad will begin a training retreat at Milanello tomorrow in preparation for the crucial match against Genoa. A win in Genoa, followed by a victory in their final match against Cagliari, would guarantee Champions League qualification for Milan. The pressure is on Allegri and his team to deliver results in these final stages of the season.
