GdS: ‘Nothing left to chance’ as Allegri transforms training regime at Milan

Massimiliano Allegri has focused on getting AC Milan up to speed in recent months and so far, the change compared to last season is clear to see. 

As highlighted by Gazzetta dello Sport this morning (see photo below), Allegri knew that he had to start strong. Not because he had a point to prove himself, but because the team and the whole Milan environment needed a boost after the poor 2024-25 season.

The performances against Arsenal and Liverpool have made it clear, both inside and outside of Milanello, that things will be different this time around. And the ‘warm-up’ must be done by mid-August, as Milan will take on Bari in the Coppa Italia on August 17. There’s no time to waste.

Opting for an early start

The fact Milan started their pre-season on July 7, with three days of physical tests before that, reinforces the point. Allegri wanted to gain a week’s lead over Napoli and nearly three weeks over Inter and Juve.

Not so much to send a message to the rivals, but rather because he knew he was starting far behind those teams in terms of structure and defensive solidity. He told his players that if they wanted to close the gap, they’d have to work harder.

Image: AC Milan

Behind the early start, however, are not only athletic motivations, but also tactical ones, such as the need to convey the basic concepts of his football to the group. The 4-3-3 is expected to be the foundation, but in the meantime, Milan have trailed a three-man backline in pre-season.

Intensity and mentality

So far, Allegri’s training sessions have been tough and above all intense. This is also thanks to his staff, which has only improved since his first spell at Milan. In training, every detail is taken care of and nothing is left to chance: Max explains the movements, Landucci supports him, Dolcetti (who watches the matches from the stands and handles video analysis) and Trombetta advise from the sidelines.

Furthermore, Magnanelli and Corradi are two ‘hammers’ who push like hell in drills thanks to their still-player-like physiques. Folletti and Filippi complete the picture. It’s a clear shift in mentality compared to the past: the workload has increased compared to previous managers.

No mercato excuses

In order to have a strong start and avoid discontent within the group, excuses cannot be thrown around. As such, Allegri doesn’t talk about the transfer market or signings. He focuses on the group he has and on the work he has to do.

He would have liked to have a full squad right away, but he knew that wouldn’t be possible. Having agreed to the changes needed, he’s now letting Giorgio Furlani and Igli Tare do the work, with the left-back position now fixed (for example) and the sales process underway.

For Max, the pitch is what counts. That is where he can make an impact. In fact, that is where he’s already making an impact.