AC Milan vs Atalanta: Projected Lineups Show Christian Pulisic in Starting XI
Match preview – Milan host Atalanta at the San Siro
On Matchday 7 of the 2026-27 Serie A season, AC Milan will welcome Atalanta to the iconic San Siro. Both sides are seeking a run of consistent points as they navigate the early stages of the campaign. The Rossoneri have gone unbeaten in their last two fixtures, while the Bergamaschi arrive after a confidence‑boosting 3-1 victory over Venezia.
Recent form heading into the clash
Milan’s recent league outings have been a mix of a narrow draw against Sassuolo (1‑1) and a convincing win over Lecce (3‑0), following an earlier 2‑2 stalemate with Lazio. The consistency they have shown in the last two games suggests a side that is beginning to find its rhythm under manager Ruben Amorim.
Atalanta, on the other hand, have turned the tide after two successive defeats – a 2‑0 loss to Juventus and a 2‑1 setback against Cagliari – by securing three points at home to Venezia. Coach Maurizio Sarri will be eager to keep the momentum alive on the road.
AC Milan’s projected starting XI
Ruben Amorim is expected to line up his squad in a 4‑4‑2 formation. The goalkeeper’s position is firmly held by Mike Maignan, while the back four is set to consist of Mario Gila, Koni De Winter, Strahinja Pavlovic and Pervis Estupiñán. In midfield, Luka Modrić partners Adrien Rabiot, providing a blend of experience and dynamism. Wide areas will be covered by Samuel Chukwueze on the right and Diego Moreira on the left, offering pace and creativity. The attacking partnership features Christian Pulisic linking play behind the strike‑partner Gonçalo Ramos.
- Goalkeeper: Mike Maignan
- Defenders: Mario Gila, Koni De Winter, Strahinja Pavlovic, Pervis Estupiñán
- Midfield: Luka Modrić, Adrien Rabiot
- Wide players: Samuel Chukwueze, Diego Moreira
- Forwards: Christian Pulisic, Gonçalo Ramos
Amorim’s list shows no reported absences, meaning the full projected squad is available for the encounter.
Atalanta’s projected starting XI
Maurizio Sarri is set to deploy a 4‑2‑3‑1 shape. Marco Carnesecchi will guard the goal, with a defensive line of Raoul Bellanova, Thomas Kristensen, Sead Kolasinac and Lorenzo Bernasconi. The double pivot in midfield features Gianluca Gaetano and Lazar Samardžić, offering both defensive cover and ball progression. Ahead of them, the attacking trio of Ederson Silva, Charles De Ketelaere and Jon Rowe will support lone striker Nikola Krstić.
- Goalkeeper: Marco Carnesecchi
- Defenders: Raoul Bellanova, Thomas Kristensen, Sead Kolasinac, Lorenzo Bernasconi
- Double pivot: Gianluca Gaetano, Lazar Samardžić
- Attacking midfield: Ederson Silva, Charles De Ketelaere, Jon Rowe
- Striker: Nikola Krstić
Like Milan, Atalanta have no listed absences, giving Sarri his preferred personnel for the trip to Milan.
Key battle: Pulisic versus Atalanta’s midfield
The most discussed storyline ahead of kick‑off is whether Christian Pulisic will start. The projected lineup confirms his inclusion, positioning him just behind Gonçalo Ramos and allowing him to operate between midfield and attack. Pulisic’s ability to drift inside and combine with Luka Modrić could test Atalanta’s double pivot, particularly the disciplined play of Gianluca Gaetano and Lazar Samardžić.
Atalanta’s creative midfield trio – Silva, De Ketelaere and Rowe – will also look to exploit any space left by Milan’s full‑backs, especially when Pulisic pushes forward. The clash of styles promises an intriguing tactical duel.
What to watch for
- How Milan’s 4‑4‑2 shape balances defensive solidity with attacking fluidity, especially with two forwards deployed.
- The effectiveness of Atalanta’s double pivot in breaking down Milan’s possession‑based approach.
- Impact of the wide players – Chukwueze and Moreira for Milan, Silva and De Ketelaere for Atalanta – on creating chances.
- Whether the match will produce the first goal of the season for either side, given the recent low‑scoring draws.
- The managerial adjustments by Amorim and Sarri if the game opens up or becomes tightly contested.
Final thoughts
Both clubs arrive with clear intentions: Milan to cement an unbeaten run and Atalanta to extend a recent winning streak. With a full roster available and Christian Pulisic confirmed in the starting eleven, the Rossoneri have a potent attacking option ready to make a difference. The encounter at San Siro should provide a compelling mix of tactical nuance and individual brilliance, making it a must‑watch fixture for Serie A supporters.
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