In a pivotal Serie A encounter, AC Milan travel to face Monza on Saturday, aiming to bounce back from their midweek setback and reignite their title aspirations. The Rossoneri, currently sitting in eighth place, find themselves 11 points adrift of league leaders Napoli following a disappointing 2-0 home defeat.
AC Milan’s inconsistent form has raised questions about Paulo Fonseca’s tenure as head coach. The team has lost five of their last 12 games across all competitions, including recent Champions League defeats. Monza, on the other hand, secured their first league win of the season last week but suffered a 2-0 defeat to Atalanta in midweek. The Biancorossi currently find themselves near the relegation zone with just eight points from ten matches.
Milan’s away form has been a concern this season, making this fixture potentially challenging. However, Monza’s recent history against Milan cannot be overlooked; in their last encounter, Monza stunned the Rossoneri with a 4-2 victory, showcasing their potential to cause an upset.
Tactically, Nesta’s defensive expertise will be put to the test against Fonseca’s attacking philosophy in what promises to be an intriguing contest. Additionally, Daniel Maldini—on loan from Milan—could feature for Monza against his parent club, adding an emotional subplot to the match.
Team News
AC Milan will welcome back key players Theo Hernandez and Tijjani Reijnders from suspension, likely replacing Filippo Terracciano and Yunus Musah in the starting XI. Alvaro Morata is expected to lead the attack, with Christian Pulisic returning from illness to support him.
Monza, under the guidance of former Milan defender Alessandro Nesta, will be without injured players Samuele Birindelli, Alessio Cragno, and Stefano Sensi. However, Warren Bondo returns from suspension, providing a boost to the midfield. Monza’s possible starting lineup (3-4-2-1) includes: Turati; Izzo, Mari, Carboni; Pereira, Pessina, Bondo, Kyriakopoulos; Mota, Maldini; Djuric.
Expected Starting XIs
Monza: Turati; Izzo, Mari, Carboni; Pereira, Pessina, Bondo, Kyriakopoulos; Mota, Maldini; Djuric
Milan: Maignan; Emerson, Tomori, Thiaw, Hernandez; Fofana, Reijnders; Chukwueze, Pulisic, Leao; Morata
Match Prediction
Despite Milan’s recent struggles and the challenges of playing away from home, their superior quality and the return of key players should give them an edge. Monza’s lack of confidence may prove decisive if Milan can score early.
Prediction: Monza 1-2 AC Milan
