It’s time for AC Milan’s first test of the season! After a tough run last year, the Rossoneri are hoping for a fresh start in the Coppa Italia. Having finished eighth in Serie A last season, they'll kick off their cup journey early, facing off against Bari this Sunday at San Siro.
Milan's Season of Change
Last season was a roller coaster for Milan. They managed to win the Supercoppa Italiana but had some disappointing results, getting knocked out of the Champions League and losing in the Coppa Italia final. The team also went through two different coaches. To turn things around, Milan brought back former boss Massimiliano Allegri, who led them to a Serie A title in 2011. He’s also added some serious talent to the roster, including legendary midfielder Luka Modric from Real Madrid.
The team has had a packed preseason with matches against top English clubs like Liverpool, Arsenal, Leeds, and Chelsea. While they had a big 9-0 win over Perth Glory, their most recent match was a tough 4-1 loss to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. Now, the real competition begins as they aim for their first Coppa Italia title since 2003.
Bari's New Chapter
Bari has also had a busy few years. They were close to earning a promotion to Serie A in 2023 but just missed out and then barely avoided relegation a year later. Now, they have a new manager in Fabio Caserta, who hopes to lead the team to a playoff spot this season.
Before they start their Serie B campaign, they'll have to face Milan, a team they haven’t played since a 2011 Serie A match.
Possible Lineups
Both teams have new players and new strategies, so we can expect some changes on the pitch. Allegri will likely test out some of Milan’s new signings, including Ardon Jashari, Pervis Estupinan, and Samuele Ricci. With key players like Tijjani Reijnders and strikers like Alvaro Morata and Luka Jovic leaving the club, Allegri will probably rely on stars like Rafael Leao, Christian Pulisic, and Santiago Gimenez to lead the attack.
On Bari’s side, new striker Christian Gytkjaer should be a key part of the lineup, along with Giuseppe Sibilli and Anthony Partipilo, who the new manager Fabio Caserta has praised.
Will Milan find their footing in the new season, or will Bari pull off an early-round upset? We’ll find out this Sunday!
