The goalkeeper is well, but with key clashes against Napoli and Juventus looming, Milan`s management wants to avoid any risks. Terracciano will start in the Coppa Italia against Lecce, while Nkunku and De Winter are set for their first starts.
Unlike Rafael Leao`s calf issue, which initially seemed minor but proved to be quite significant, Mike Maignan`s current problem doesn`t appear to be causing extensive delays. It was a slight concern and remains so. However, as it involves a particularly delicate muscle, Milanello has spent recent hours deliberating: should he return for the Lecce match (as Allegri had initially suggested before the Udinese game) or wait for the crucial encounter with Napoli? Barring any unexpected changes, the latter option seems to have prevailed, especially after the most recent training session. After the Coppa Italia, Milan faces Napoli and Juventus within a single week, and the vital importance of these two high-stakes fixtures is unquestionable. Therefore, Allegri is keen to avoid any risks and will confirm Terracciano in goal against Lecce.
During training, Maignan has notably demonstrated his skill, even reportedly humiliating teammates with a clever back-heel dribble amidst three opponents.
Prudence Prevails
In practical terms, Maignan is not out of action; he is actively training. To illustrate, if Tuesday night`s match were a Coppa Italia derby, he would undoubtedly play. While Allegri certainly respects Lecce, the upcoming schedule featuring Napoli and Juventus mandates caution. This prudence suggests postponing his return, which will now occur against Napoli on Sunday evening at the Meazza stadium. The decision is to allow him a few more days of training, safeguarding him from the risks of a high-pressure, do-or-die match. Consequently, Terracciano will remain between the posts, hoping to continue the collective positive streak that has seen Milan achieve four clean sheets in their first five seasonal matches, including three consecutive ones in their last three outings. The Rossoneri are not conceding goals and are allowing very few shots, which is ideal for any goalkeeper. Regarding the rest of the lineup, Nkunku will make his debut as a starter alongside Gimenez in attack. In midfield, Fofana is preferred over Loftus-Cheek, and Ricci will play instead of Modric. Bartesaghi will replace Estupinan on the left, and in defense, Gabbia will yield his spot to De Winter, who also earns his first start.
