Milan Get Three Fit Players Ahead of Crucial Derby della Madonnina, Pulisic Expected to Return
Derby della Madonnina looms as Milan aim to close the gap on Inter
The Rossoneri are preparing for Saturday's high‑stakes clash with city rivals Inter Milan at the San Siro. With Inter perched at the summit of Serie A on 25 points after nine matches, AC Milan find themselves seven points adrift and desperate for a result that could keep their title aspirations alive.
Injury news brings a welcome boost
A spate of injuries has plagued Milan in recent weeks. Defender Fikayo Tomori, winger Samuel Chukwueze, midfielder Matteo Gabbia, forward Alexis Saelemaekers and goalkeeper Pietro Terracciano have all been ruled out, while Tomori’s thigh problem added to the list after the 4‑2 loss to Bologna.
Manager Ruben Amorim, however, received a timely lift with three players cleared to rejoin the squad:
- Mario Gila – back from his recent ailment and ready to reinforce the back line.
- Adrien Rabiot – recovered and available to add depth in midfield.
- Diego Moreira – fit to return to the attacking unit.
In addition, veteran Luka Modric, who started the Bologna game on the bench, is expected to be named in the starting eleven, providing experience and stability in the midfield engine room.
Will Christian Pulisic start?
One of the biggest questions heading into the derby concerns the status of American star Christian Pulisic. The winger was rested for the Bologna fixture and omitted from the lineup, but all indications point to his inclusion against Inter.
Having just signed a new contract that could see him earn up to €10 million per season, Pulisic will be eager to make an impact in one of the most important games of his Milan tenure. He has a proven record against the Nerazzurri, having found the net in a victory over Inter last season.
Possible tactical set‑ups
Amorim has a few formation options for the derby, each offering a different role for Pulisic:
- 4‑2‑3‑1 – Pulisic could operate as the central attacking midfielder (the No. 10) behind striker Gonçalo Ramos, with Omari Hutchinson and Diego Moreira providing width on either flank.
- 4‑3‑3 – The American might be deployed on the left wing, allowing Ramos to lead the line centrally while Hutchinson occupies the opposite wing.
Both systems give Amorim flexibility to balance defensive solidity – especially after conceding four goals at home in recent weeks – with the creative spark needed to break down a disciplined Inter side.
What the result could mean
Inter have been in blistering form, winning eight of their nine matches and drawing the other. Many of those victories have come courtesy of late goals or dramatic comebacks, underscoring the fine margins at the top of the table.
For Milan, a win would not only narrow the points gap but also restore confidence after a disappointing mid‑week performance. Even a draw could keep them within touching distance of the leaders, while a loss would widen the deficit and increase pressure on Amorim as the season progresses.
Key players to watch
- Christian Pulisic – his creativity and goal threat could be decisive.
- Gonçalo Ramos – the striker’s ability to hold up play and finish chances will be crucial.
- Luka Modric – his experience may help control the midfield tempo.
- Inter’s attack – the Nerazzurri’s forward line will look to exploit any defensive frailties left by Milan’s injury‑hit back line.
All eyes will be on the San Siro this Saturday as two of Italy’s biggest clubs lock horns in a match that could shape the trajectory of the Serie A title race.
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