Serie A: Milan-Udinese Match Preview and Team Dynamics

The Serie A is set to resume today after its second seasonal break, featuring four matches. One highlight is the encounter between AC Milan and Udinese scheduled at 18:00 CEST. The match will be broadcast exclusively by DAZN. To watch it on television, viewers will need to download the DAZN app on a compatible smart TV or use devices like Amazon Firestick and Google Chromecast, or the TIMVISION Box.

This evening’s clash will see AC Milan present a somewhat modified lineup as they face Udinese. In a notable tactical decision, Rafael Leão will start from the bench, with coach Paulo Fonseca entrusting the left wing to Noah Okafor. This marks Leão’s second time on the bench in Serie A this season, a rarity for the player who was largely a regular in the previous campaign under coach Stefano Pioli.

The relationship between Fonseca and Leão appears crucial to Milan’s dynamics. Initially deemed promising, their rapport has yet to fully materialize into the expected synergy. Sources close to the team suggest Leão’s playing style, perceived as too relaxed and lacking aggression, may not align with Fonseca’s expectations for a player of his talent. There have been no reported conflicts between the two, as confirmed by Fonseca, who attributed Leão’s benching to the need for squad rotation, a point he noted in a press conference, “We have this necessity at this moment.”

Further adjustments in the lineup include the defensive pairing, with Malick Thiaw likely preferred over Matteo Gabbia, who is not at full fitness, and the anticipated return of Samuel Chukwueze upfront for his first start since August against Lazio. Meanwhile, Theo Hernandez is absent due to suspension, with Filippo Terracciano expected to fill in.

Following recent performances, particularly the defeat to Lazio and underwhelming displays from key players like Hernandez and Leão against Parma, Milan hopes to recalibrate their strategy. Additionally, remarks from Leão while on international duty with Portugal stirred interpretations of possible tensions, as he emphasized feeling fully supported by the national team staff. Fonseca, however, remained focused on addressing performance issues transparently, regardless of any player’s profile or name.