Milan vs Torino: Serie A Is Back
Here we go. The first matchday of Serie A 2025/26 is just around the corner and AC Milan are gearing up to face Torino in what will be Rubén Amorim‘s official competitive debut as Rossoneri head coach. A new season loaded with expectations, a desire for redemption and a few question marks to be cleared up in the final hours before kick-off.
The Probable Lineup: Amorim’s 3-4-2-1
The Portuguese manager’s preferred system is now well established: a 3-4-2-1 that demands balance, intensity and quality across every area of the pitch. Here is how the Diavolo could line up.
Between the sticks, Mike Maignan is an undisputed starter. The French goalkeeper is the bedrock of the Rossoneri defence and one of the best in his position at European level.
At the back, the confirmed central defensive pair is Mario Gila and Strahinja Pavlović, two summer signings who have already impressed during pre-season. The third defensive slot, however, is subject to a late battle: Matteo Gabbia, who has returned to group training after a period on the sidelines, is pushing for a starting berth. The manager will assess his condition right up to the deadline.
In midfield, despite his recent return to Milanello, Adrien Rabiot may not yet be ready to start given how little time he has had to train with the group. In his place, Luka Modrić is set to make his seasonal bow from the first minute, partnered by Yunus Musah. Samuel Chukwueze is expected to operate on the right flank, with the left-flank position still to be confirmed depending on fitness updates.
In the attacking midfield zone, Ruben Loftus-Cheek looks like the frontrunner for a starting role, tasked with providing creativity and dynamism just behind the striker. A second attacking midfielder is to be confirmed based on the squad’s fitness picture.
Up front, the focal point will be Gonzalo Ramos, the centre-forward who joined from Paris Saint-Germain during the summer window, ready to make his Serie A bow — possibly from the first whistle.
The Notable Absentees
As reported in recent days, several players will not be available against Torino. Rafa Leão and Santiago Giménez are still dealing with minor physical complaints. Fikayo Tomori, Youssouf Fofana and Christopher Nkunku will also miss out, partly for reasons connected to their respective transfer situations.
As for Christian Pulisic, the American could make the squad, but the final call will only come in the next few hours: the alternative is to manage him carefully and keep him fresh for the following fixture against Venezia. Diego Moreira, the club’s latest arrival, will be named in the squad for the very first time.
Amorim’s Pre-Match Press Conference: What to Expect
Amorim will address the media at his pre-match press conference on Saturday, the day before the game, and will clear up any remaining doubts over the lineup. It will also be a chance to gauge his tactical vision ahead of what promises to be a long, intense and exciting campaign. Milan step into the opening weekend with an identity still taking shape, but with the quality and drive to make an immediate impression.
