STORIES FROM SAN SIRO

It may be the international break, but there has been no shortage of news coming out of the Milan camp in the past week. So let's take a look at what has been making the headlines in this weeks' STORIES FROM SAN SIRO.

Vital run-outs in practice match defeat

Christian Pulisic and Ardon Jashari both took part in a behind closed doors practice match against Virtus Entella last Friday, 14 November.

The duo, who are returning from injury lay-offs, were given the opportunity to get vital minutes into their legs as they look to stake a claim for a starting berth in the upcoming Derby della Madonnina.

Pulisic wasted no time in making an impact, getting on the end of a Magrassi through ball to slot through the 'keepers legs on 8 minutes for 1-0.

However on the half-hour mark, the Serie B side levelled the scores when Fofana lost the ball on the edge of his own penalty area, gifting an opportunity for David Ankeye to fire home. 1-1.

Normal service was resumed early in the second period, with Pulisic again playing a part in the goal.

The USA international fed Chaka Traore down the left who in turn played an inch-perfect ball across the area for Borsani to tap in at the far post. 2-1.

Milan, however, again surrendered the lead on 67 minutes, when Boccadamo got on the end of a Russo through ball and slotted it beyond a stranded Torriani in the Rossoneri goal. 2-2.

There was still time for a Virtus Entella winner too, which came on 86 minutes as substitute Debenedetti linked up with Denis Portanova before hammering home the deciding goal. 2-3.

Losing any game is of course frustrating, but as far as Max Allegri was concerned, the scoreline was immaterial in the grand scheme of things. The game was, afterall, arranged purely with the mindset of getting key players some important game time under their belts. Mission accomplished as far as that was concerned.

Pulisic should now be able to play a starting role in the derby with Inter on Sunday, while Jashari is also knocking on the door to make an impact.

AC Milan Eye Lewandowski — And a Shock return for Thiago Silva?

AC Milan are reportedly lining up two headline-grabbing moves as they look to strengthen their squad. Veteran striker Robert Lewandowski is firmly on their radar, with Milan said to be planning a new round of talks with his agent, Pini Zahavi, ahead of a potential summer free transfer.

The Rossoneri see Lewandowski not just as a goalscorer but as a leader — echoing their successful acquisition of Luka Modrić last year. However, top transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has dampened speculation of a January move, noting the striker is focused on finishing the season at Barcelona, and suggesting that a summer switch is more probable.

On the defensive side, Milan have also been linked with a surprising Thiago Silva comeback. Reports suggest potential conversations about bringing the 41-year-old veteran back to San Siro. While Silva remains highly respected by the club — and has deep roots in Milan — it’s unclear how serious the bid is, given his age and long-term plans.

If both moves were to materialise, they would signal a bold — and arguably nostalgic — strategy from Milan, prioritising experience and leadership as they gear up for future competition.

International Round-up!

A number of the Milan squad are currently away with their respective countries.

Here is a look at how the Rossoneri international contingent have been getting on so far!

France – Maignan & Nkunku

• Mike Maignan (France) kept a clean sheet as France dominated Ukraine 4–0 in their World Cup qualifier, securing their spot at the 2026 tournament. He was then rested for the 3-1 win over Azerbaijan.
• Christopher Nkunku (France) came on as a late substitute against Ukraine but made no major statistical impact. He did however start against Azerbaijan, having a goal disallowed before being taken off in the 62nd minute.

Milan will be pleased. Maignan’s assured presence in goal helps maintain his confidence, and while Nkunku’s minutes were limited, his involvement signals trust from the national team.

Belgium – Saelemaekers & De Winter

• Koni De Winter (Belgium) played the full 90 minutes in Belgium’s qualifier against Kazakhstan, while Alexis Saelemaekers (Belgium) came off the bench around the 71st minute.
• Despite dominating possession, Belgium could only manage a 1–1 draw in Kazakhstan.

The result was a bit disappointing in terms of qualification momentum. De Winter got a solid run, and Saelemaekers showed energy when introduced, but Belgium missed an opportunity to close things out.

They should get the job done tomorrow however, as Belgium face Liechtenstein in Liege. Milan will be hoping both players come through unscathed.

Italy – Ricci and Gabbia

• Samuele Ricci (Italy): Ricci made a late appearance — coming on with around 10 minutes to play — in Italy’s shocking 4–1 defeat to Norway at San Siro. His brief cameo gave him some involvement, but the result was a major disappointment for the Azzurri.
• Matteo Gabbia (Italy): Gabbia was on the bench for Italy’s heavy loss and didn’t get any minutes in the 4–1 defeat.

The duo were unused substitutes for the 2-0 win over Moldova last Thursday.

Croatia – Modric

• Luka Modrić (Croatia): The veteran midfielder played a key role as Croatia sealed qualification for the 2026 World Cup with a 3–1 win over the Faroe Islands. Modrić, now 40, will lead Croatia into what could be his fifth World Cup, a testament to his enduring class and leadership. On Monday night, Modric came on as a late substitute as Croatia won 3-2 away in Montenegro.

Portugal – Leao

• Rafael Leão (Portugal): Leão started in Portugal’s convincing 9–1 victory over Armenia, helping the Seleção clinch top spot in their World Cup qualifying group. He played until the 56th minute, showing flashes of pace and creativity, although he didn’t find the net. Leao also played 27 minutes of the 2-0 defeat against Ireland last week.

Serbia - Pavlovic

• Strahinja Pavlović (Serbia): Pavlović featured in the first half (playing left centre-back) in Serbia’s 2–1 win over Latvia. Despite the positive contribution, the result couldn’t change Serbia’s difficult campaign. That game followed on from a 2-0 defeat at Wembley against England last Thursday, in which Pavlovic played the full 90.

Under 21s

• Davide Bartesaghi (Italy U21) was booked as he played the full 90 minutes of Italy U21s 2-1 defeat against Poland last Friday. Francesco Camarda also featured for the young Azzurri. Italy play again tomorrow (Tuesday) against Montenegro.
• Zachary Athekame (Switzerland U21) played the whole game when Switzerland U21 drew 1-1 with their French counterparts on Friday night. His side play again tomorrow when they take on Luxembourg away from home.

Under 20s

• David Odogu (Germany U20) played 45 minutes in Germany U20s 6-0 win over Romania on Friday. The youngster also got minutes during a 5-0 demolition of Italy on Monday.