A new chapter is unfolding at Milan under returning head coach Massimiliano Allegri, and while there are question marks all over the squad, a select group of players has already solidified their place in the manager’s plans. In a team full of potential, competition, and tactical flexibility, only four players are reportedly considered “untouchable”—the guaranteed starters, the cornerstones of Allegri’s rebuild.
So, who made the cut? With the Rossoneri kicking off their preseason with a highly anticipated friendly against Arsenal in Singapore, fans are eager to see how the coach shapes his team in the early weeks. But perhaps the most pressing question surrounding the club isn’t just about new signings or transfer targets. It’s about identity. And for that, Allegri is turning to his most trusted lieutenants.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Italian boss has identified four “untouchables” in the Milan squad: Mike Maignan, Luka Modric, Rafael Leao, and—yes—Christian Pulisic.
The American forward, who arrived at Milan in the summer of 2023 after leaving Chelsea, has quickly become a talismanic figure at the club, leading the Italian side in goals last season with 17 in all competitions. He’s thrived in Serie A, producing back-to-back personal bests with 15 goals in his debut season and improving upon that last term.
Gazzetta dello Sport described the 26-year-old as “untouchable”, highlighting his irreplaceable status alongside the newly arrived Ballon d’Or winner Modric, Milan’s elite goalkeeper Maignan, and wing wizard Leao.
Pulisic’s Milan renaissance: Leader on and off the pitch
Pulisic, nicknamed “Captain America”, has not only earned his place on the pitch but also taken on greater responsibility within the dressing room. His swift adaptation to Italian soccer, his professionalism, and his consistent performance levels have made him a central figure in Milan’s long-term project. Reports suggest the club is preparing a new contract extension that would keep him at San Siro until 2029.
Despite rumors linking him with a potential return to the Premier League or even a high-profile move to Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, Pulisic appears committed to Milan’s project. According to Corriere dello Sport, he has turned down a move to Saudi Arabia, opting instead to be part of Allegri’s rebuild.
With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon—and set to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this upcoming campaign could prove vital for Pulisic, both for club and country.
Which are the seven spots up for grabs?
While Milan’s core is set, uncertainty reigns elsewhere. At full-back, the club is still hunting for a natural right-back, while Pervis Estupinan has emerged as the top candidate to replace Theo Hernandez on the left. In central defense, Fikayo Tomori and Strahinja Pavlovic are the preferred starters, but there are doubts about their chemistry. Malick Thiaw and Matteo Gabbia could yet push their way into the lineup.
In midfield, Modric is expected to anchor the team as a deep-lying playmaker. His likely understudy is Samuele Ricci, signed from Torino. The club is also pursuing Ardon Jashari, while Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Youssouf Fofana compete for the other spot. Yunus Musah, meanwhile, is reportedly a candidate to leave.
The striker position remains unresolved. Names like Victor Boniface, Dusan Vlahovic, Breel Embolo, and Santiago Gimenez are in the mix, but Milan’s budget and ambitions must align. With no Champions League revenue this year, prudence is required.
