Milan are unbeaten in 18 league games but have drawn twice recently; Allegri backs Pulisic and is experimenting with a four-man defence. Betting angle: Milan are favourites at Como — consider backing Milan to win and Pulisic as an anytime scorer, or a Milan win with under 3.5 goals if you expect a tight, tactical game.
Allegri Stands by Pulisic as Milan Head to Como
Massimiliano Allegri refused to single out Christian Pulisic for his missed opportunities against Fiorentina and signalled tactical tweaks ahead of Milan’s rescheduled Serie A trip to Como. The Rossoneri arrive at the Stadio Sinigaglia without strikers Niclas Fullkrug and defender Strahinja Pavlović, but Rafael Leão is fit and expected to start.
Pulisic, Chances and the Coach’s Response
Allegri highlighted Milan’s positive metrics from the Fiorentina game — three clear chances with Pulisic inside the opening 15 minutes — but stressed that results ultimately shape judgment. “If he had scored three in Florence… he didn’t. He had scored before, and maybe he’ll score again tomorrow,” Allegri said, urging greater mental focus as the season reaches its second half.
Tactical Shift: Testing a Four-Man Defence
While Milan have primarily used a 3-5-2 this season, Allegri confirmed he is experimenting with a four-man back line. The coach framed the change as situational, influenced by opponent characteristics and available personnel. With Fullkrug sidelined, Allegri noted the need to balance a starting XI that also leaves substitution options on the bench.
Team Form, Injuries and Selection Concerns
Milan remain unbeaten in 18 league fixtures and sit second in Serie A, but arrive in Como on the back of consecutive draws against Genoa and Fiorentina. Absences include Fullkrug and Pavlović; Leão’s return provides an attacking spark and should influence Allegri’s forward choices.
Como Threat and Match Context
Allegri warned against underestimating Como under Cesc Fàbregas, praising the former midfielder’s work and the team’s pressing, technical profile. “It’s not Fabregas against Allegri, it’s Como against Milan,” he said, acknowledging Como’s organised and lively approach despite their relative managerial youth.
Wider Serie A Picture and Intensity
Allegri reflected on league rivals, praising the technical level of matches involving Napoli and Inter and noting the importance of ball movement for intensity. With the season’s second half underway, Milan must accumulate points to secure a top-four finish — a key objective the coach repeatedly emphasised.
Key Takeaways for Punters
Milan’s strong unbeaten run contrasts with two recent draws and some attacking inefficiency. Expect Milan to be favourites at Como, but also a team likely to tweak formation and conserve energy. Markets to consider: Milan win, Pulisic anytime scorer, or Milan win with a low-goal total if you expect a disciplined, tactical game.
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Milan coach Massimiliano Allegri refuses to blame Christian Pulisic for his errors in front of...
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