Milan Seeks to Maintain Scudetto Momentum Against Tricky Sassuolo

MILAN – AC Milan aims to solidify its position atop the Serie A standings this Sunday when it hosts Sassuolo at the iconic San Siro. While the Rossoneri are enjoying a remarkable 13-match unbeaten run in league play, they’ll be wary of a Sassuolo side that has proven to be a persistent thorn in their side, defying expectations after returning to the top flight.

A Tale of Two Trajectories

Massimiliano Allegri’s Milan has quietly assembled a compelling title challenge, surpassing 30 points after 14 games for the first time since their triumphant 2021-22 season. The team’s resilience was on full display in their recent 3-2 victory over Torino, a match where they overcame a two-goal deficit thanks to strikes from Adrien Rabiot and a brace from the in-form Christian Pulisic. Pulisic, recovering from a bout of the flu, has become a pivotal figure in Milan’s attack, averaging a goal every 64 minutes in Serie A this season.

However, Milan’s focus is split as they prepare for the Supercoppa Italiana, adding another layer of complexity to their schedule. The team’s ability to balance these commitments will be crucial in maintaining their momentum.

Sassuolo, meanwhile, has exceeded expectations following their promotion back to Serie A. Currently sitting in eighth place with 20 points, they’ve demonstrated a knack for upsetting higher-ranked opponents, most recently with a convincing 3-1 win against Fiorentina. Under the guidance of Fabio Grosso, the Neroverdi are proving to be a formidable force, particularly on their travels, having lost only once in their last five away matches.

The San Siro Enigma

Despite the significant disparity in club stature, the historical head-to-head record between Milan and Sassuolo is surprisingly balanced. In their last five league meetings at San Siro, Milan has secured only one victory, losing three times. This unsettling pattern has earned Sassuolo the label of a “bogey team” for the Milanese giants. A thrilling 3-3 draw in their most recent encounter further underscores the competitive nature of this fixture.

While Milan dominated Sassuolo 6-1 in a Coppa Italia tie last year, the memory of Sassuolo’s stunning 5-2 away victory in January 2023 remains fresh in the minds of fans. These past results highlight Sassuolo’s ability to raise their game against top opposition, making them a dangerous opponent for Milan.

Injury Concerns and Tactical Battles

Milan will be without key forward Rafael Leao due to a minor muscular injury, forcing Allegri to reshuffle his attacking lineup. Pulisic’s return to full fitness is a significant boost, and he is expected to partner with Christopher Nkunku up front, filling the void left by the absent Santiago Gimenez. Midfield concerns also linger with Youssouf Fofana battling an adductor issue and Zachary Athekame sidelined with a calf strain.

Sassuolo, however, faces more substantial personnel challenges. They will be without talisman Domenico Berardi until 2026, placing greater responsibility on the shoulders of Armand Lauriente, Andrea Pinamonti, and Cristian Volpato. Volpato has been in excellent form, directly contributing to four goals in his last four appearances, and will be a key threat for Milan’s defense.

A Global Context of Footballing Inequality

The Serie A, like many of Europe’s top leagues, reflects a growing disparity in financial power between the established elite and newly promoted clubs. However, Sassuolo’s success demonstrates that tactical acumen and team spirit can bridge the gap, at least temporarily. According to a Statista report, the revenue gap between the top five European leagues and others continues to widen, creating an increasingly uneven playing field. This makes Sassuolo’s ability to compete with Milan all the more remarkable.

Looking Ahead: A Crucial Test for Milan

Milan’s form has been impressive, but their history against Sassuolo suggests this will be a challenging encounter. Allegri’s side will need to be at their best to break down a well-organized and motivated Sassuolo team. Victory would not only extend their unbeaten run but also send a strong message to their title rivals, particularly Napoli, who are currently level on points.

AC Milan possible starting lineup: Maignan; Tomori, Gabbia, Pavlovic; Saelemaekers, Loftus-Cheek, Modric, Rabiot, Bartesaghi; Pulisic, Nkunku

Sassuolo possible starting lineup: Muric; Walukiewicz, Izdes, Muharemovic, Doig; Thorstvedt, Matic, Kone; Volpato, Pinamonti, Lauriente

Prediction: AC Milan 2-1 Sassuolo

While Milan’s recent record is strong, their struggles against Sassuolo cannot be ignored. However, their current form and the return of Pulisic give them the edge. Expect a closely contested match, but ultimately, Milan should prevail, moving clear at the summit before Napoli’s game.

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