AC Milan aims to climb the Serie A standings as they host Udinese at San Siro on Saturday. Currently two points behind their visitors, Milan seeks redemption following a loss to Fiorentina before the international break.
Match Preview
After suffering back-to-back defeats in the Champions League, Milan’s league form also hit a snag with a 2-1 loss at Fiorentina. Despite a brief equalizer from Christian Pulisic, the Rossoneri left Tuscany empty-handed, halting a four-match unbeaten run in Serie A. However, they remain undefeated at home this season, winning all three league matches at San Siro.
Paulo Fonseca’s side must rectify their defensive issues, as another defeat would mark five losses in their first ten fixtures—something that hasn’t happened in 80 years. A repeat of last season’s thrilling 3-2 win against Udinese would ease the pressure on Fonseca.
In contrast, Udinese is enjoying a strong start under Kosta Runjaic, having won four of their last seven matches. Aiming to repeat their last San Siro victory—a 1-0 win last November—Udinese currently sits fifth in the standings, just behind Napoli.
Team News
Milan will be without suspended full-back Theo Hernandez and faces injuries to key players like Marco Sportiello and Alessandro Florenzi. Ruben Loftus-Cheek returns, and Pulisic, fresh from a scoring streak, aims to continue his fine form.
Udinese welcomes back key players like Florian Thauvin and Martin Payero but is still missing Alexis Sanchez due to injury. Lorenzo Lucca and Thauvin are the top scorers for the Friulani, each netting three goals this season.
Possible Lineups:
AC Milan:
Maignan; Emerson, Gabbia, Tomori, Terracciano; Fofana, Reijnders; Pulisic, Morata, Leao; Abraham.
Udinese:
Okoye; Kabasele, Bijol, Giannetti; Ehizibue, Lovric, Karlstrom, Ekkelenkamp, Zemura; Thauvin, Lucca.
Given Milan’s attacking prowess at home, they are favored to secure a crucial victory and move above Udinese in the table.
