CorSport: Milan develop ‘clear identity’ under Allegri – why it is a U-turn from previous years

AC Milan are second in the table and they are right in the midst of a Scudetto battle, with Massimiliano Allegri’s stamp evident.

As Corriere dello Sport (via MilanPress) report this morning, Milan continue to win by leveraging their solidity and consistency, traits that bear the hallmark of Allegri sides both in his first stint at San Siro and his two spells with Juventus.

The Rossoneri are developing a well-defined identity that has been worked on since Allegri’s arrival in June: a compact defence, organised like a bunker, and an attack capable of striking at the first opportunity.

A complete U-turn

The numbers speak volumes about this transformation. Milan have already scored 11 goals with their first shot on target in games this season, a statistic that demonstrates an uncommon level of cynicism.

Among the key players is Rafael Leao, who scored four goals with his first shot on target in a game in 2026-27, confirming his significant impact on the team’s attacking dynamics. Christian Pulisic is of course a sniper too, as the team’s top scorer.

Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images

In recent seasons, from Stefano Pioli’s time into the chaos of 2024-25 under Paulo Fonseca and Sergio Conceicao, games have often been out of control. Milan conceded too many goals and were wasteful at the other end, whereas this season so far has been the exact opposite.

There may be less volume in terms of chances at both ends, but Allegri’s Milan focuses on the essentials, struggling when necessary, and punishing the opponent at the right time. A clear, pragmatic philosophy that is yielding results and fully reflects the coach’s trademark.