'AC Milan better with 10, Modric and Leao improving, sad for Thiaw'

DUBLIN, IRELAND - AUGUST 09: Massimiliano Allegri, Head Coach of AC Milan, reacts during the pre-season friendly match between Leeds United and AC Milan at Aviva Stadium on August 09, 2025 in Dublin, Ireland. (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images)

Max Allegri shrugs off the friendly defeat to Chelsea, as he saw teachable moments for 10-man Milan, confirming a change of plan for Luka Modric, and he’s ‘sad’ Malick Thiaw is leaving.

The Rossoneri were already 2-0 down at Stamford Bridge in their final pre-season test, when Milan Futuro youth team defender Andrei Coubis was sent off.

They went on to lose the match 4-1, as Youssouf Fofana got one back.

“We finished a month of pre-season training where we avoided injuries, so from Tuesday we can begin preparing for the Coppa Italia,” Allegri told Sky Sport Italia.

“Paradoxically, we played better when down to 10 men, as we were more organised. We could’ve paid more attention, these are things that we can sort out in the games that matter.

“It’s not ideal to concede after six minutes on a set play, while we could’ve defended better on the second goal too. The lads showed good spirit, and the important thing is that nobody got injured. We can return to Milan after two games in two days, in decent condition.”

Milan changes limited for Allegri by schedule

Allegri had to rotate the squad because they were only in action yesterday in Dublin for a 1-1 draw with Leeds United.

The defence also had to be reshuffled, because Thiaw left the camp this afternoon to complete his €40m move to Newcastle United.

“I am sad he has left. The club is taking steps to find his replacement, but this is the transfer market, we have to accept it and keep working. We have Gabbia, Pavlovic and Tomori, so that’s three defenders to play next Sunday. If the new one arrives over the next week, good, otherwise we’ll wait.”

Milan will play their first competitive game of the season earlier than usual, because they are in the Coppa Italia First Round tie against Bari.

The positive news was from the debut of new signing Modric, who came on at half-time, and Rafael Leao adapting to the role of centre-forward.

“Leao has raised his concentration level and his performances are becoming more impactful. We had chances to score more goals and should’ve been more determined,” added Allegri.

“Modric only arrived 10 days ago, so he had 30 minutes in his legs, but he played 45 because the red card changed our plans. He was meant to come on for Musah, who played 70 minutes today after 60 yesterday. Modric is behind the others in terms of fitness levels, so there’s work to do.”

The coach is not too concerned at a 4-1 defeat in his final pre-season friendly.

“It’s not a disaster, it’s summer football. We just need to work on the details, like dealing with set plays. I am happy with the way we worked for the last month, now the games that matter will begin. Those are the most enjoyable,” concluded Allegri.

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