AC Milan is entering a crucial phase in their Serie A campaign, but Christian Pulisic’s fitness concerns are forcing coach Massimiliano Allegri to rethink his attacking options ahead of two key fixtures against Lazio.
Pulisic has been one of Milan’s most consistent offensive performers this season, scoring decisive goals and providing creativity in the final third. However, recent muscle issues have cast doubt on his availability at a time when Milan can least afford interruptions in their forward line.
Pulisic’s Return Offered Hope
Pulisic’s comeback during the Derby della Madonnina initially raised optimism among fans and teammates. His solitary goal secured a narrow 1-0 victory and propelled Milan into second place in the Serie A standings.
Now, with another challenging fixture ahead, Milan must once again adapt quickly. Allegri faces the task of pairing Rafael Leão with a forward capable of maintaining Milan’s attacking momentum in Pulisic’s potential absence.
The Challenge of Pulisic’s Absence
According to recent reports, Pulisic is struggling with recurring muscle problems, which Allegri confirmed could make him a doubt for the upcoming Lazio matches.
“This is a difficult moment for us,” Allegri admitted. “Christian is important for our attack, but we must be ready with alternatives to keep our offensive output consistent.”
Without Pulisic, Milan will need a strategic adjustment to sustain goal-scoring threats and manage Leão’s responsibilities in the frontline.
Limited Options and the Santiago Gimenez Factor
Adding to Milan’s attacking challenges is the continued absence of Santiago Gimenez, who has not returned to training since ankle injury in early November. His unavailability further narrows Allegri’s choices.
Currently, the main candidates to partner Rafael Leão are Christopher Nkunku and Ruben Loftus-Cheek, each offering distinct strengths. Nkunku brings creativity, agility, and tactical versatility, while Loftus-Cheek provides physical presence and aerial threat in the box.
Assessing the New Combinations
Leão and Nkunku have already played together twice this season. Their pairing yielded a 1-0 victory against Roma and a 2-2 draw with Parma, showing promising synergy. Nkunku’s movement creates space for Leão to exploit defenses and take more aggressive runs toward goal.
Alternatively, a partnership between Leão and Loftus-Cheek has yet to be tested in competitive matches this season. If Allegri opts for this combination, it would mark Milan’s eighth forward pairing of the campaign, highlighting the coach’s challenge in finding a stable attacking lineup amid injuries.
Looking Ahead
With two high-stakes games against Lazio on the horizon, Allegri must quickly determine the optimal attacking formula. Whether he relies on Nkunku’s creativity or Loftus-Cheek’s strength, Milan’s ability to maintain offensive intensity will be crucial in their push for a top Serie A finish.
Fans will be watching closely as the Rossoneri seek to balance injuries, rotation, and tactical innovation to stay competitive in both domestic and European competitions.
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