Derby Dilemma: Will Allegri's Milan Edge Lazio Without Pulisic?
27 November 2025
Injury Update and Squad News
Massimiliano Allegri, the Milan coach, indicated that star Christian Pulisic could miss the upcoming derby against Lazio in Serie A round 13. He said in the pre-match press conference: "Pulisic will be difficult to include, but anything could happen tomorrow or the day after."
He added that other players are fit and that some returns will be gradual next week, keeping the squad depth strong.
Pulisic has recently recovered from a hamstring injury sustained with the United States in October; he came on as a substitute against Parma before the international break, started against Inter last Sunday, and even scored the winning goal for Milan.
Allegri highlighted that Pulisic remains one of Milan's top scorers this season, with seven goals and two assists in ten appearances across all competitions.
He noted that five players returned from international duty last month exhausted, but the depth of the squad remains a strength, and plans for the January window are already in motion to help the team in the second half of the season.
"The team is not small," he said. "We missed a few players last month, but we have quality depth." He also stressed that decisions on substitutions should be made as needed, not merely for the sake of change.
Regarding contract talks, Allegri touched on goalkeeper Mike Maignan, stating that the club is working to secure the future and keep stability for the years ahead. He confirmed conversations with Maignan and with Felipe, the goalkeeping coach, about the matter, noting Maignan remains among the best and that the team is focused on a solid long-term plan.
Looking ahead, Allegri underscored the derby's importance and the adrenaline it injects, while reiterating the ultimate objective: finishing the season in the top four. He pointed out that seven teams are within seven points, as Lazio re-enters the race, and praised Sarri for his work in turning Lazio into a tough opponent.
"Saturday's match will be tough because they are well organized and Sarri is doing a great job. They have a real chance to re-enter the Champions League race. The derby was a great win, and three more points would move us a step closer to our goal."
Results snapshot for Milan in the 2025-2026 season:
Having failed to secure a Champions League slot last season and finishing outside the top four, Milan is not competing in a European competition this season. The focus has been on the domestic league and the Coppa Italia, which has allowed the squad to rebuild away from European distractions.
The campaign began with a Coppa Italia win at Bari; in Serie A, Milan opened with a 2-1 defeat to Cremonese, then went on a run of results that included Lecce (2-0), Bologna (1-0), Udinese (3-0), Napoli (2-1), a goalless draw with Juventus, and a win over Fiorentina (2-1). A draw with Pisa followed, with Milan then a solid cup performance against Lecce in the Coppa Italia as they prepared for the Lazio clash. The Rossoneri sit in a strong position behind Roma (27 points) with 25 points, and Lazio’s return to form keeps the title race tight.
Punchline 1: If Milan keeps this up, Allegri might finally need a bigger trophy case—preferably one with enough shelves for all the compliments from the bench.
Punchline 2: With January coming, Milan’s transfer talk might get louder than the match announcer—let’s hope the new signings come with a built-in energy drink subscription.
