When Massimiliano Allegri, head coach of AC Milan announced his squad for the Serie A showdown at San Siro Stadium on 28 September 2025, the football world leaned in. The focal point? Rafael Leão, the Portuguese winger, finally cleared a 45‑day calf setback and is poised to line up against Napoli. Yet Allegri admitted a lingering question: will long‑time American star Christian Pulisic earn a start? The answer could shape a match many are already dubbing a "six‑pointer" in the early‑season title race.
Why Leão’s return matters now
Leão’s injury came in Milan’s opening‑week loss to newly promoted Cremonese, a 2‑1 defeat that left fans uneasy. His swift rehabilitation, confirmed by MilanNews, means the left‑flank menace can now add his blistering pace to a side that’s clawed back into third place, just three points behind league‑leading Napoli. "He’s ready to go," Allegri told reporters, "the calf is fully healed, and I trust his fitness." If Leão starts, Milan gains a direct threat against Napoli’s high‑line defense, especially in transitions where his speed can exploit the spaces behind the defending trio.
The selection puzzle: Pulisic, Nkunku, and Rabiot
Allegri’s dilemma isn’t just about one player; it’s about balancing a midfield and attacking unit that’s richer than most Serie A squads. He fielded a question about pairing Christian Pulisic with Christopher Nkunku. "If I start both, I push Santiago Giménez to the bench," Allegri admitted, hinting at a tactical trade‑off between width and central creativity.
Adding to the mix is recent signing Adrien Rabiot, the French international whose arrival Allegri praised as a “boost to competitiveness”. The French midfielder’s box‑to‑box energy could free up space for Pulisic’s runs, but it might also disrupt the rhythm that Luka Modrić — the Croatian veteran still pulling the strings in midfield — has built with the Italian trio of defenders.
Napoli’s unbeaten aura and what it means for Milan
Napoli enters the match as the reigning champions, unbeaten in 12 league games and sitting atop the table with 32 points. Their defensive solidity, orchestrated by captain Giovane Lo Celso and goalkeeper Alex Meret, forces Allegri to contemplate a tighter back three.
The fixture, catalogued as Milan vs Napoli Serie A clashSan Siro Stadium, is more than a points battle; it’s a psychological test. A win could propel Milan within a single point of the leaders, while a loss would widen the gap to five, potentially reshaping the title narrative for the rest of the season.
Expert and fan reaction
Former Italian international and pundit Gianluca Vialli warned that “Allegri must trust his instincts”. Vialli highlighted Leão’s ability to cut inside and unleash a right‑footed shot, a skill set Napoli’s high‑press may struggle to contain. Meanwhile, Milan fan forums burst with mixed feelings: some cheer Leão’s return, while others argue Pulisic’s “American flair” could be the X‑factor against a disciplined Napoli side.
Statistically, Milan has scored 14 goals in 6 league games this season, averaging 2.33 per match, whereas Napoli boasts 22 goals from 12 games (1.83 per match). Yet Napoli’s defense has conceded just 6 goals, half of Milan’s 12, underscoring the importance of Milan’s defensive organization if they hope to capitalize on Leão’s attacking spark.
What’s at stake for the clubs
- League positioning: A win narrows the gap to one point, keeping the title race wide open.
- Player morale: Leão’s comeback could reignite confidence after a rocky start.
- Coach’s credibility: Allegri’s lineup choices will be dissected by media and supporters alike.
- European ambitions: Both clubs aim for Champions League spots, with early points crucial for seeding.
Looking ahead: Possible scenarios after the match
If Milan clinches a narrow victory, Allegri may solidify a core lineup featuring Leão, Pulisic, and Nkunku, while rotating Rabiot for less critical fixtures. Conversely, a loss could see the coach lean on veteran Modrić and Rabiot to stabilize midfield, potentially benching Pulisic until he finds form.
In any case, the next few weeks will test squad depth as both Milan and Napoli juggle Serie A, Coppa Italia, and early‑season European qualifiers. The decisions made on 28 September could echo throughout the campaign, influencing transfer strategies and contract negotiations that typically heat up after the winter breakpoint.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will Rafael Leão’s return impact AC Milan’s attack?
Leão reintroduces a left‑side threat that combines speed, dribbling, and a keen eye for goal. His presence forces Napoli’s full‑backs to stay deeper, creating space for teammates like Pulisic or Nkunku to cut inside. Statistically, Milan’s left‑wing has produced 40% of their total shots this season, so a fit Leão could boost that figure and potentially add 1‑2 goals per game.
Why is Christian Pulisic’s starting spot uncertain?
Allegri faces a tactical puzzle: pairing Pulisic with Nkunku could crowd the attacking midfield, leaving less room for the newly‑signed Rabiot and veteran Modrić. Additionally, Pulisic has missed a few training sessions with a minor knock, making the coach cautious about risking a fatigue‑related dip in performance against a high‑press Napoli side.
What are Napoli’s strengths going into the match?
Napoli’s unbeaten run rests on a compact back three, disciplined pressing, and a lethal partnership between forward Victor Osimhen and midfielder Matteo Politano. Their defensive record—only six goals conceded in 12 matches—means they can absorb pressure and hit on the counter, especially if Milan’s full‑backs overcommit.
How could this match affect the Serie A title race?
A Milan win would cut Napoli’s lead to one point, turning the league into a virtual sprint. Conversely, a Napoli victory would widen the gap to five points, giving the champions a psychological edge and forcing Milan to play catch‑up in upcoming fixtures against mid‑table opponents.
What are the next steps for both clubs after the clash?
Both sides will shift focus to the Coppa Italia round of 16 and upcoming European qualifiers. If Milan stumble, Allegri is expected to rotate his squad, giving younger players like Brahim Díaz more minutes. Napoli, meanwhile, will aim to maintain momentum, possibly reinforcing their midfield depth before the January transfer window.
