Allegri confirms Luka Modric will be on the bench vs Fiorentina, with Nkunku available and rotations likely; Rafael Leão in form. Betting angle: expect Milan to rely on pace and Leão as the primary threat — consider Leão anytime scorer or a Milan win with both teams to score. Squad rotation raises match volatility, so reduce stakes on long-shot accumulators and avoid heavy pre-match totals.
Allegri confirms Modric on the bench ahead of Fiorentina clash
Massimiliano Allegri has indicated Luka Modric will not start in Milan’s Serie A trip to Fiorentina, instead being named on the bench. The coach underlined that the squad has recovered well after the 1-1 draw with Genoa and stressed the need for a strong technical and physical display in a hostile environment.
Team news: Nkunku fit, four forwards available
Allegri reported that Christopher Nkunku is fit and available. “I have four players up front, two on the bench and two will play. Modric will hardly play; he will be on the bench with us,” he said. With a congested calendar of four matches in close succession, rotation is expected.
Midfield options: Ricci and Jashari in contention
Ricci and Jashari are highlighted as reliable midfield options. Allegri praised Ricci’s consistency — noting his substantial minutes this season — and described Jashari as a player with a bright future. The coach admitted he may deploy one or both, depending on tactical needs.
Striker picture: Fullkrug pushing for start
January signing Niclas Fullkrug has made two substitute appearances and remains in contention for a start. “I’ll decide tomorrow morning. All our strikers are fit; two will play,” Allegri confirmed, leaving room for tactical adjustments based on match conditions.
Genoa penalty incident and coach reaction
Allegri brushed off controversy over Genoa’s missed late penalty after footage appeared to show opposition player Strahinja Pavlović altering the spot. The coach called such moments part of football’s unpredictable nature and declined to engage in public disputes with the opposing coach’s comments.
Rafael Leão’s form: more concrete and decisive
Rafael Leão scored a late equaliser against Genoa and has eight goals in 14 appearances this season, averaging a goal every 116 minutes. Allegri praised his improved decision-making and composure: “He was much better in the second half. He made more runs… He’s become more concrete; he enjoys scoring more than doing flashy things.” Leão’s clinical form is a growing focal point for Milan’s attack.
Match outlook and betting implications
Modric starting on the bench suggests Milan may lean on pace and direct attacking play rather than midfield control. For punters: - Consider Leão as an anytime scorer given his recent scoring return. - Milan to win with both teams to score is a reasonable market given defensive rotation and Fiorentina’s counter threats. - Squad rotation increases unpredictability; avoid heavy stakes on long-shot accumulators and pre-match totals — in-play markets could offer better value once lineups and early match tempo are clear.
Key tactical note
Expect a Milan side that prioritises movement and finishing efficiency over possession dominance. Fiorentina’s revival means a technically demanding and physically intense match is likely, making substitutions and late-game fitness pivotal.
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Massimiliano Allegri says Luka Modric won’t start against Fiorentina tomorrow, but is happy to see...
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