The Rossoneri will go into the next season on the back of a busy transfer window.
AC Milan started the summer transfer window by selling one of their best players as Sandro Tonali left for Newcastle. The €64m deal, however, has allowed the Rossoneri to bolster their squad with a host of new signings.
So far, Samuel Chukwueze, Christian Pulisic, Tujjani Reijnders, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Luka Romero, and Marco Sportiello have completed moves to San Siro. The club are also pursuing a move for Arsenal’s Folarin Balogun, but they are yet to reach an agreement with the Premier League giants.
As Milan prepare for the new Serie A season, let’s take a look at their possible lineup in the next campaign.
Formation
AC Milan’s head coach has shown a preference for the 4-2-3-1 formation during his tenure, and there are no indications of a drastic tactical shift for the upcoming season. However, the flexibility to switch to a 4-3-3 setup with the same personnel remains a viable option.
It is important to note that the starting lineup for Milan in 2023/24 might see significant changes compared to the beginning of the season. The club has made four notable signings, and three of them are expected to immediately slot into the starting XI.
Backline
Mike Maignan will continue as Milan’s first-choice keeper, playing behind a four-man defence line.
Skipper Davide Calabria retains his position as Milan’s first-choice right-back. Pierre Kalulu is expected to be his backup, providing cover and competition in the position.
Another player who has a sealed starting spot is Theo Hernandez, who made 45 appearances for the Rossoneri last season.
We expect Pioli to use the duo of Fikayo Tomori and Malick Thiaw at the centre of Milan’s backline. Tomori has already established a reputation as one of Serie A’s best defenders, while Thiaw hopes to secure a regular place in Rossoneri’s lineup after his successful debut campaign in 2022-23.
Midfield
In the midfield, the dynamics are set to change with the arrivals of Reijnders and Loftus-Cheek. The two midfielders are anticipated to form the backbone of Milan’s new-look midfield.
Additionally, Christian Pulisic is expected to take on a deep-lying forward role, providing creative sparks and goal-threat from a slightly withdrawn position.
Yunus Musah could serve as a rotational option for Reijnders in midfield if he ends up joining the club.
Attacking Line
In the attacking department, Milan are expected to use only one of their new acquisitions in the lineup.
Samuel Chukwueze is likely to occupy the right flank after his much-awaited move from Villarreal. The continually impressive Rafael Leao, who extended his contract this summer, will likely retain his spot on the opposite wing.
Olivier Giroud is expected to continue his role up front. However, new signing Noah Okafor will provide Stefano Pioli with a solid backup option.
Okafor also possesses the versatility to cover for Leao on the left flank. Similarly, Luka Romero could step in as an alternative for Chukwueze on the right side of the attack.
- Possible Lineup: Maignan, Hernandez, Thiaw, Tomori, Calabria, Loftus-Cheek, Reijnders, Pulisic, Leao, Chukwueze, Giroud.
Be sure not to miss out on the latest news about Rafael Leao
Download our brand new App and follow your favorite players, clubs, and much more
