AC Milan head coach Massimiliano Allegri has hinted at a potential tactical shake-up ahead of Sunday's crucial Serie A clash against Atalanta at San Siro, but dashed hopes of seeing Luka Modric return for the season finale.
The Rossoneri find themselves in a tense battle for Champions League qualification, holding a slim three-point advantage with just three games remaining. However, their recent form has been concerning—only one win in their last five matches, and a solitary goal scored during that stretch.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Allegri suggested he may deploy an attacking trident against the high-flying Bergamo side, moving away from his preferred 3-5-2 formation. "If Gimenez is there, there will be one or two players moving around him," the coach said, hinting at a more adventurous approach. Santiago Gimenez could be handed a starting role to reignite Milan's misfiring attack.
"We can't change what we've done in these ten months," Allegri acknowledged. "Tomorrow we begin a mini-season of three games. That's how we have to look at it. If we make it to the Champions League, we'll go; if not, we won't deserve to qualify."
The veteran tactician emphasized the importance of squad depth in the final stretch. "The games last long, and substitutions in the last 30 minutes are decisive. Everyone will have to be involved. We are in a decisive and important moment."
On the injury front, Allegri confirmed that aside from Modric and Fikayo Tomori, his entire squad is available for selection. The Croatian midfield maestro has been training separately after undergoing cheekbone surgery two weeks ago following a collision against Juventus. "Modric's return is nearly impossible for the last game of the season," Allegri admitted, effectively ruling out the 40-year-old for the remaining fixtures.
With everything on the line, Milan must navigate a tricky run-in that includes a trip to Genoa after Sunday's showdown with Atalanta. For a team that has built its season on defensive solidity, Allegri's willingness to unleash a more attacking setup suggests the Rossoneri know exactly what's at stake.