AC Milan is set to close out the calendar year with a monumental Serie A matchup against AS Roma at the iconic San Siro on December 29. The stakes couldn’t be higher; both teams are aiming to rally after disappointing seasons so far.
Milan, currently placed eighth on the Serie A table, managed to secure a victory against Hellas Verona before the break, but it didn’t ignite much excitement. The team remains under pressure, with manager Paulo Fonseca aware of the need for improved performances as they look to avoid slipping any lower. "I am confident and positive," Fonseca stated after the team’s final training session, underscoring the importance of the upcoming match.
Unfortunately for Milan, injuries have plagued their squad. Key players like Rafael Leao, who has been sidelined with muscle issues, and Christian Pulisic, who won’t even be on the bench due to ankle discomfort, will miss this significant fixture. The team’s lineup will likely feature Álvaro Morata as the central striker, backed by Samuel Chukwueze and Alex Jimenez, with Tijjani Reijnders providing support from midfield. goalkeeper Mike Maignan will look to maintain the momentum at the back.
On the other side, AS Roma is experiencing its fair share of turmoil following the dismissal of Daniele De Rossi and the subsequent appointment of Claudio Ranieri. The latter has instilled some stability and calmness within the squad, though heavy losses had left fans anxious earlier this season. Ranieri himself noted the importance of team coherence, stating, "Claudio Ranieri and the word ‘stability’ go hand in hand when itcomes to Roma." With only Bryan Cristante unavailable, the Giallorossi’s recent resurgence has raised expectations, with players like Paulo Dybala and Leandro Paredes returning to form.
Historically, this matchup has been tight, with Milan securing six wins and three draws from the last nine encounters, making them the favorites going onto the pitch. Notably, the last year saw Milan beat Roma twice at home, but Roma exacted revenge in the Europa League quarter-finals. A win for Roma could stabilize their season and instill long-term confidence among the supporters.
Fans will also be paying close attention to younger players such as Niccolò Pisilli of Roma, who has exhibited potential this season and could prove influential against Milan’s formidable defense. Similarly, Mats Hummels' presence will be pivotal; Roma's backline has tightened under his leadership, and if he can manage to keep Milan at bay, it will signal possible turnarounds for the club.
The tension leading up to the match has been palpable, with both managers expressing cautious optimism. Fonseca acknowledges the importance of beating strong opponents, saying, “This game is a good indicator for us.”
Expectation hangs thick; if either side can clinch this victory, it could mark the turning point needed to regain their season form. Fans on both sides are eager to see how their teams will perform on this high-stakes occasion.
With the match set to kick off on Sunday at 20:45 CET at San Siro, anticipation is building for what promises to be another thrilling chapter in this storied rivalry.
Both AC Milan and AS Roma find themselves desperately needing points, but only one will emerge victorious. Will Milan continue their recent dominance, or will Roma galvanize their resurgence under Ranieri? The football world will be watching.
