AC Milan are preparing for a crucial early test in the new year as they travel to face Cagliari on Serie A matchday 18 of the 2025/2026 season. The fixture is set to take place at the Unipol Domus on Saturday, January 3, 2026, and carries significant implications for the Rossoneri’s title ambitions.
The match marks Milan’s first competitive outing of 2026, and it comes at a time when the race at the top of Serie A is growing increasingly intense. Every point is becoming vital, especially against the backdrop of a tightly packed leading group.
Milan arrive in Sardinia buoyed by confidence after closing out 2025 with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Hellas Verona at San Siro. That commanding performance briefly sent the Rossoneri to the top of the Serie A standings and underlined their credentials as genuine title contenders this season.
However, the situation at the summit remains fluid. Inter Milan have since reclaimed first place with 36 points, edging Milan by a single point, with the Rossoneri sitting second on 35 points from 16 matches. Napoli are also firmly in the picture, just one point further back in third, adding further pressure ahead of this weekend’s fixtures.
A win away to Cagliari would not only keep Milan within touching distance of Inter but also help maintain a buffer over Napoli, ensuring Allegri’s side remain fully in control of their destiny as the second half of the season begins.
Allegri Confirms Santiago Gimenez’s Long Absence
Despite the positive momentum on the pitch, Milan have been dealt a significant blow ahead of the Cagliari clash. Head coach Massimiliano Allegri has confirmed that striker Santiago Gimenez will be sidelined for an extended period due to injury.
The Mexican forward has endured a frustrating spell since arriving in Italy. While he remains the only natural centre-forward in Milan’s squad prior to the January window, Gimenez has struggled to consistently meet expectations, with fitness issues further hampering his ability to find rhythm.
After weeks of attempting conservative treatment, Milan’s medical staff ultimately concluded that surgery was unavoidable. Gimenez underwent an operation on his ankle, a decision taken to ensure long-term recovery rather than risk recurring setbacks.
Speaking during his pre-match press conference, Allegri confirmed the extent of the striker’s absence. “Gimenez will be out for three to four months,” the Milan boss stated, as quoted by SempreMilan.
The timeline means Gimenez is likely to miss a large portion of the second half of the season, placing additional strain on Milan’s attacking depth during a decisive phase of the campaign.
Milan Respond Quickly in the Transfer Market
With Gimenez ruled out long-term, Milan’s management wasted little time addressing the issue. The Rossoneri moved swiftly in the January transfer window to secure the loan signing of Niclas Füllkrug from West Ham United.
The German international arrives as a short-term solution but brings experience, physical presence, and a proven scoring record at both club and international level. His arrival is seen as a pragmatic move, aimed at ensuring Milan do not lose momentum while waiting for Gimenez’s return.
Allegri welcomed the signing and highlighted Füllkrug’s potential impact on the squad. The veteran coach believes the former Borussia Dortmund striker can offer immediate tactical alternatives, particularly against deep-lying defenses where physicality and aerial threat are crucial.
“Füllkrug has arrived and he will help us,” Allegri said. “At this moment, I am happy with the squad I have.”
Allegri Urges Caution Despite Strong Form
While satisfied with his current options, Allegri also issued a note of caution. Despite Milan’s impressive performances, he stressed that their current points tally does not yet guarantee success in any competition.
“We are playing quite well,” Allegri explained. “But the points we have now are not enough to achieve any objective. We need everyone available and in the best physical condition.”
The Milan coach emphasized the importance of squad fitness as the fixture schedule intensifies. January alone presents a demanding run of matches across Serie A and domestic competitions, making rotation and depth increasingly vital.
Cagliari Challenge Should Not Be Underestimated
Although Milan enter the match as favorites, Cagliari are expected to provide a stern test on home soil. The Sardinian side have built a reputation for being difficult to break down at the Unipol Domus, particularly against top teams.
Allegri is well aware of the challenge awaiting his side. An early goal could be crucial, but patience and discipline will be equally important to avoid falling into the traps often set by teams fighting for survival.
With the title race finely balanced and injuries beginning to test squad depth, Milan’s response against Cagliari could set the tone for their entire second half of the season. A strong start to 2026 would reinforce belief inside the dressing room—and send a clear message to their rivals.
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