CorSport: Allegri set for clash of styles vs. Italiano – how Milan should line-up in Bologna

AC Milan do not play in the next Serie A round until Tuesday night, but Massimiliano Allegri already seems to know his starting line-up.

The Serie A season continues for Milan in five days and they are getting ready to visit the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara where they will face Bologna, aiming to secure three crucial points in their pursuit of the top spot in the table.

According to Corriere dello Sport (via MN24), the Milan XI for the trip now seems to be finalised, even though the physical condition of some players is not yet at its best.

Another clash of styles

The match will be, first and foremost, a tactical showdown between two opposing philosophies. On one side, we have Massimiliano Allegri , the experienced Tuscan coach known for his pragmatic approach and ability to manage moments of the game with great composure.

On the other, leading the home side will be Vincenzo Italiano, a dynamic coach whose trademarks are high pressing and attacking play, but perhaps with some more inconsistency in results as a consequence.

Photos: Jonathan Moscrop + Emmanuele Ciancaglini/Getty Images

Despite a mixed run of form to start 2026 (three wins in six), the Rossoneri should rely on their most talented players to unlock Bologna. Allegri seems intent on launching the pairing of Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic from the start

From there, the rest of the team picks itself. Alexis Saelemaekers and Davide Bartesaghi are by now the clear starting wing-backs, with Luka Modric and Adrien Rabiot the midfield anchors in front of a back three with Fikayo Tomori and Matteo Gabbia almost certainly present.

The doubts concern the right central midfield role, but Samuele Ricci seems to have claimed it in recent weeks, while it seems unthinkable to drop Koni De Winter given his excellent run of form and his first goal for the club at the Olimpico.