Electric atmosphere at Milanello: Milan prepare for the derby at full throttle
The countdown to the Derby della Madonnina is on, and the mood at Milanello is one of fierce determination. Manager Massimiliano Allegri has demanded a sharp increase in training intensity, with the squad completing a double session yesterday at the Carnago Sports Centre. The mission is crystal clear: be ready to face an opponent that currently sits 10 points ahead in the Serie A standings.
Maignan rallies the troops: “We need energy and adrenaline”
On an emotional level, the Rossoneri dressing room appears united and laser-focused. Players who have experienced several derbies, such as Rafael Leão, know exactly what it takes to perform on these occasions. Captain Mike Maignan has also played his part, posting a rallying cry on the club’s social media channels: “We need energy and adrenaline.” Powerful words, especially ahead of a match where emotional drive can make all the difference. That said, as Allegri himself underlines, passion must be paired with thorough tactical preparation and well-drilled set plays.
Gabbia undergoes hernia surgery: already back at Milanello for rehab
Significant news from the medical department: Matteo Gabbia has undergone surgery for an inguinal hernia and is expected to be sidelined for approximately one month. The centre-back, however, has already returned to Milanello — not only to begin his rehabilitation programme immediately, but also to greet his teammates and motivate them ahead of the derby. A gesture that speaks volumes about the character of the 25-year-old, the very same player who once settled a derby with a match-winning goal that remains etched in Rossoneri fans’ memories. The hope is to have him back right after the international break, in time for the clash against Napoli. Should the timeline not work out, attention will shift to the following fixture.
Defensive emergency: Allegri’s options
Gabbia’s absence puts Allegri in a tricky spot, particularly as the manager has repeatedly requested an additional defensive reinforcement without being accommodated in the transfer market. The back line for Sunday’s derby is expected to feature Tomori, Pavlović and one more central defender, with limited alternatives available. On a positive note, Bartesaghi trained individually on the pitch today — a promising sign that could lead to his inclusion in the matchday squad. Tomorrow will be the decisive day to determine whether the young defender can at least make the bench.
Probable lineup: Estupiñán to start, Modrić and Rabiot anchor the midfield
On the left flank, the main talking point is the expected inclusion of Estupiñán in the starting eleven. Allegri has been testing him throughout the week and seems ready to hand him a start, despite acknowledging the player’s occasional defensive lapses. Against an Inter side this dangerous, maximum concentration will be non-negotiable.
In midfield, Milan will lean on two players of world-class pedigree: Luka Modrić and Adrien Rabiot. Their quality, experience, and composure in high-pressure matches make them vital assets for the Rossoneri cause.
Up front, the expected pairing is Christian Pulisic and Rafael Leão. The duo have not yet developed a fully cohesive understanding when playing together, and their on-pitch chemistry remains a work in progress. The spotlight falls particularly on the American winger, who scored the only goal in the first-leg derby — a 1-0 Milan victory last November — but has now gone two months without finding the net. Sunday’s showdown could be the perfect stage for him to end that drought.
Gimenez nearing his return: recovery progressing well
More encouraging news concerns Santiago Gimenez: the Mexican striker is feeling much better and could resume full training with the squad in the coming days. His return is edging closer, and it represents a significant boost for Milan’s attacking options. It will then be up to Allegri to decide how to reintegrate him — whether to start him right away or ease him back into action gradually. As the old saying goes: it is always better to have one extra option than one fewer.
What is at stake on Sunday
Three points on Sunday are not just desirable — they are a necessity. A win would cut the gap to Inter to just seven points while keeping the chasing pack — Napoli, Roma, Juventus and Como — at arm’s length in the race for Champions League qualification. A draw would change very little, while a defeat would send the Nerazzurri 13 points clear, effectively putting a stranglehold on the Scudetto race. Allegri and his players know it all too well: on Sunday, far more than local bragging rights are on the line.
