AC Milan started the 2025-26 season in top form, even becoming leaders of Serie A for several weeks. However, they have accumulated a series of inconsistencies, losing the top spot. In fact, the Rossoneri are coming off a draw against AS Roma, losing key points. They face Bologna today, looking for a victory that will allow them to return to their best form. Nevertheless, coach Massimiliano Allegri holds a big challenge as Christian Pulisic will be absent in today’s game.
Although Christian Pulisic has been a mainstay under coach Massimiliano Allegri in recent matches, the USMNT star will miss the Rossoneri’s game against Bologna, as he is not even in the bench. According to Gianluca Di Marzio and Antonio Vitiello, the 27-year-old has been diagnosed with bursitis, which sidelines him for the match. This setback marks his third injury of the season, hindering his otherwise impressive performance.
Pulisic once found peak scoring form with AC Milan, but the USMNT star has now gone five consecutive matches without a goal, drawing serious criticism from fans. However, he hasn’t fully reached his best physical condition yet, and the lack of attacking stars may have forced him to exert extra physical effort. Therefore, the 27-year-old’s absence might be crucial in restoring him to full fitness ahead of the final phase of the season.
In the absence of Christian Pulisic, coach Massimiliano Allegri will rely on Christopher Nkunku and Ruben Loftus-Cheek to make a significant impact. Additionally, Adrien Rabiot will play a crucial role in the attack, as his goal-scoring ability will be more important than ever to secure a win. Furthermore, Bologna have won only one of their last six Serie A matches, suggesting that AC Milan might not encounter too many difficulties in claiming victory.
Matteo Gabbia of AC Milan acknowledges the fans with teammates after the Serie A match.
Bologna lineup vs. AC Milan
Ahead of the match against AC Milan, Bologna remain without key goalkeeper Łukasz Skorupski,and without Jhon Lucumí due to physical issues. However, coach Vincenzo Italiano has a fairly competitive squad, with Riccardo Orsolini and Jonathan Rowe leading the attack. In addition, Santiago Castro could also play a key role in pushing for a victory against the Rossoneri.
see also
How to watch Bologna vs AC Milan in the USA: Live Stream and TV for 2025/2026 Serie A
Considering this, Bologna will play as follows: Federico Ravaglia; Nadir Zortea, Nicolò Casale, Torbjörn Heggem, Juan Miranda; Remo Freuler, Lewis Ferguson; Riccardo Orsolini, Jens Odgaard, Jonathan Rowe; Santiago Castro.
AC Milan lineup vs. Bologna
Although Christian Pulisic is AC Milan’s most notable absence, coach Massimiliano Allegri will also be without Alexis Saelemaekers and Santiago Giménez. As a result, they are expected to make significant changes to the starting lineup. Even so, the Rossoneri remain clear favorites to secure the win, as stars such as Christopher Nkunku and Adrien Rabiot are fully fit and ready to play a crucial role in the match.
With this in mind, AC Milan will start as follows: Mike Maignan; Fikayo Tomori, Matteo Gabbia, Koni De Winter; Zachary Athekame, Samuele Ricci, Luka Modric, Adrien Rabiot, Davide Bartesaghi; Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Christopher Nkunku.
