Allegri Demands More From His Strikers
A busy day at Milanello, where Massimiliano Allegri held his pre-match press conference ahead of the clash against Torino. The Milan boss pulled no punches: “The strikers need to roll up their sleeves”. A direct and unmistakable message to the Rossoneri’s attacking department, which has been called upon to deliver during a crucial stretch of the season.
The alarming statistic behind his frustration is the 21-goal gap compared to Inter in terms of goals scored. A significant deficit that, even accounting for the Nerazzurri’s deeper squad, remains far too wide for a club with Milan’s ambitions. Allegri knows it, and he wants answers on the pitch.
Leao and Pulisic: Case Closed — “After Every Argument Comes Peace”
Among the topics addressed in the press conference, the manager was keen to draw a line under the reported disagreement between Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic, which emerged during the match against Le Havre. The underwhelming display from both players had not gone unnoticed, nor had the visible tension on the field. But Allegri cut the conversation short with a phrase that speaks volumes: “After every argument comes peace”.
Wise words from the coach, who prefers to look forward rather than fuel controversy. The Portuguese winger and the American attacker are two cornerstones of Milan’s frontline, and their chemistry will be essential over the final nine matches of the campaign. Milan need everyone pulling in the same direction.
Füllkrug Pushing for a Start: The German Striker Could Get His Chance
An intriguing development from the training ground: Niclas Füllkrug has been extensively tested by Allegri in recent sessions. The German forward, who has seen limited game time so far, could be handed a starting berth against Torino. With just one start to his name this season — in Florence alongside Pulisic — the coach appears ready to give him a proper opportunity.
If confirmed in the starting eleven, it would send a strong signal: Milan intend to use every resource available to close the goal-scoring gap that has been worrying Allegri and the entire fanbase.
Probable Lineup: Rabiot Returns, Battles on the Flanks
The biggest team news concerns Adrien Rabiot’s return to the starting lineup. The numbers tell the story: Milan’s points-per-game average is significantly higher when the Frenchman is on the pitch. Having him available against Torino means added quality, physicality, and leadership in midfield.
Alongside Rabiot, Luka Modrić is confirmed — and Allegri makes no secret of his satisfaction whenever discussing the Croatian maestro. A battle between Youssouf Fofana and Samuele Ricci is on for the remaining midfield spot. On the wings, Alexis Saelemaekers is expected to operate on the right, while on the left Davide Bartesaghi is ahead of Estupiñán.
At the back, the defensive trio should consist of Fikayo Tomori, Koni De Winter, and Strahinja Pavlović. Matteo Gabbia is making good progress in his recovery but is not yet fit; his return is pencilled in for after the international break, just in time for the blockbuster fixture against Napoli. Between the posts, naturally, stands Mike Maignan.
Torino: A Must-Win Before the Break
The stakes could hardly be higher. Milan must secure three points to protect their advantage over Napoli and head into the break on a positive note. Looming on the horizon is the decisive Easter Monday showdown against the Partenopei — a potential season-defining encounter. Following the disappointing defeat in Rome against Lazio, a strong collective response is essential. And Allegri appears to know exactly how to get one.
