Allegri’s Potential Milan Return Could Reshape Tactics and Challenge Leão’s Role

With Massimiliano Allegri linked to a return to AC Milan, reports have emerged analyzing how his tactical philosophy could impact the squad. La Gazzetta dello Sport highlighted concerns regarding star player Rafael Leão, whose lack of defensive work could put his starting spot in jeopardy under Allegri.

The 57-year-old coach, known for his pragmatic and disciplined approach, would likely favor players with strong tactical awareness and work rate over pure attacking flair. Given his history at Juventus, Allegri is expected to maintain his defensive solidity-focused style if he takes charge at Milan again.

Defensive Stability and Midfield Balance in Allegri’s Milan Tactical Approach

Allegri has traditionally preferred players who are physically strong, tactically disciplined, and capable of performing multiple roles. One of the players who could thrive under his management is Strahinja Pavlović.

The defender’s combination of physicality, defensive awareness, and ability to play in both a back-four and a three-man defense makes him a perfect fit for Allegri’s structured system. With defensive stability being a key part of his coaching philosophy, Pavlović’s adaptability could make him an essential piece in Allegri’s Milan squad.

In midfield, Allegri would likely rely on hard-working yet technically competent players who can maintain defensive balance while contributing offensively. Younes Musah and Warren Bondo are two such players whose profiles resemble those of Blaise Matuidi and Adrien Rabiot—both of whom thrived under Allegri at Juventus.

However, the most intriguing midfield option for Allegri could be Tijjani Reijnders. His combination of technical skill, endurance, and composed finishing makes him an ideal box-to-box midfielder in Allegri’s pragmatic system.

Pulisic’s Versatility and Giménez’s Role in Allegri’s Tactical System

One of the biggest tactical shifts under Allegri could involve Christian Pulisic. The American winger’s tactical intelligence, defensive work rate, and ability to operate in multiple positions align perfectly with Allegri’s philosophy. His versatility would give Milan greater tactical flexibility, something that Rafael Leão does not provide.

While Leão possesses explosive pace and dribbling ability, his inconsistent defensive commitment could put his starting position at risk. Allegri’s system demands discipline from attacking players, making Pulisic a more reliable option.

At the center-forward position, Santiago Giménez could play a crucial role under Allegri—provided he avoids the struggles that plagued Dusan Vlahovic at Juventus. Under Allegri, Vlahovic often found himself isolated, unable to influence games as expected.

To ensure Giménez does not face a similar fate, Allegri would need to integrate him effectively into the team’s tactical setup. If deployed correctly, Giménez’s physical presence and goal-scoring instinct could make him a vital asset in Allegri’s Milan, potentially filling the role of a dependable target man in his system.