In a pivotal clash at the majestic San Siro, AC Milan prepares to unleash reinvigorated talents Alvaro Morata and Rafael Leao against an Empoli squad battling injury setbacks. Kickoff is scheduled for 17.00 GMT.
Fresh off a Champions League win over Slovan Bratislava—albeit a nail-biting 3-2 thriller—the Rossoneri face mounting pressure after a disappointing streak. The last outing ended in an uninspired 0-0 stalemate against Juventus, leaving the fans frustrated and the team in desperate need of reinvigoration.
Morata, who was sidelined due to suspension during the last match, and Leao, who made a triumphant appearance off the bench, reclaim their spots in the starting XI. However, Milan’s lineup is marred by significant absences: Luka Jovic, Ismael Bennacer, and Alessandro Florenzi are out long-term, while Noah Okafor fights flu-like symptoms, prompting Yunus Musah to step up as part of the supporting trio. Christian Pulisic, however, emerges unscathed from a recent knock, adding depth to the roster.
Conversely, Empoli’s form is steady; they remain unbeaten in their last three encounters, sitting comfortably mid-table with 16 points—only three shy of Milan, despite the latter having a game in hand. The visitors will be missing Nicolas Haas, who is recovering from surgery on a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, joining several teammates like Mattia De Sciglio and Szymon Zurkowski in the treatment room. The squad also includes former Milan players Lorenzo Colombo and goalkeeper Devis Vasquez but will need to recalibrate their midfield strategies.
Milan vs. Empoli Line-ups
Milan: Maignan; Emerson Royal, Gabbia, Thiaw, Theo Hernandez; Fofana, Reijnders; Musah, Pulisic, Leao; Morata
Empoli: Vasquez; Goglichidze, Ismajli, Viti; Gyasi, Henderson, Anjorin, Pezzella; Colombo, Maleh; Pellegri
As the stakes continue to rise in this exhilarating season, Milan eyes a crucial victory to regain its rhythm and silenced disgruntled supporters. The fans await an electrifying display of skill and determination under the San Siro lights.
