Report reveals which Milan players Allegri would trust most – Football Italia

MILAN, ITALY – NOVEMBER 23: Rafael Leao of AC Milan is challenged by Francisco Conceicao and Teun Koopmeiners of Juventus during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Juventus at Stadio Giuseppe Meazza on November 23, 2024 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

With Massimiliano Allegri linked with a return to Milan, a report from La Gazzetta dello Sport discussed potential players who could fit the Italian tactician’s playing philosophy, pointing out how star Rafael Leao’s poor inclination to tracking back could put his place at risk.

While widely criticised during his last stint at Juventus for prioritising concreteness over an eye-catching football style, the 57-year-old will hardly change his approach during a potential second tenure at the San Siro.

The former Juventus coach has traditionally favoured tactically disciplined and physically robust players who can adapt to multiple roles on the pitch.

Which Milan players could thrive under Allegri

According to the pink newspaper, among those who could thrive under his management is Strahinja Pavlović, as his physicality, defensive solidity, and ability to play in both a back four and a three-man defence make him a strong candidate for an Allegri-led Milan.

In midfield, Allegri would likely rely on technically sound yet hard-working players capable of maintaining defensive balance, with the characteristics of Yonus Musah and Warren Bondo partially recalling profiles like Blaise Matuidi and Adrien Rabiot, who played key roles at Juventus under the Italian boss.

However, Tijjani Reijnders could emerge as the most intriguing midfield option for the Tuscan manager. His blend of technical quality, relentless stamina, and composed finishing makes him an ideal fit for Allegri’s system.

In attack, Christian Pulisic stands out as a player Allegri could highly value. His work rate, tactical intelligence, and ability to operate both centrally and out wide align seamlessly with Allegri’s pragmatic approach. Pulisic’s versatility would provide Milan with tactical flexibility—something Rafael Leão does not offer.

While the Portuguese star possesses electrifying pace and dribbling ability, making him a lethal counter-attacking weapon, his inconsistency and fluctuating commitment may push Allegri toward more reliable alternatives.

Meanwhile, Santiago Giménez could also play a pivotal role under the new manager, as long as he avoids the same struggles that plagued Dusan Vlahovic. The Serbian striker often found himself isolated and struggled to become the game-changer many expected—an issue Allegri would look to avoid with Giménez.