The 3-4-2-1 structure under scrutiny
Pre-season derbies can be tricky to evaluate, but AC Milan's recent 1-1 draw against Inter provided a sharp window into Ruben Amorim's ongoing tactical transformation. Transitioning a squad away from legacy habits takes time, and the patterns on display at the weekend showed both promising progress and stubborn old tendencies that need ironing out before competitive fixtures start.
Amorim's insistence on a rigid 3-4-2-1 shape requires crisp rotation between the wing-backs and the central midfield pivot. When Milan hit their pressing triggers effectively during the middle of the first half, they successfully disrupted Inter's buildup play. But when defensive coverage lagged, spaces opened up between the central defenders that Inter was quick to exploit.
Midfield balance and personnel questions
The return of Luka Modric to standard rotation brings a calm presence to the engine room, providing the exact composure Amorim expects in possession. Modric's ability to dictate tempo helps stabilize the transition phase, yet the broader question of wing-back depth remains unresolved across the squad.
With rumors surrounding potential moves for Tottenham's Djed Spence — who reportedly carries a €40m price tag amidst interest from Liverpool, Inter, and Milan — it is clear that both Milan clubs are actively searching for dynamic profile upgrades on the flanks. Spence's ball-carrying capability would add immediate verticality, something that was occasionally lacking when Milan turned over possession in the final third against Inter.
Former Milan winger Jens Petter Hauge also reflected on his time at the club and former manager Stefano Pioli, while looking ahead to Inter clashes, noting his enduring affection for Milan and expressing a hopeful sentiment:
"I hope to come back"
What to fix before kickoff
Old habits die hard, particularly in defensive transitions where Milan's backline still tends to drop deep rather than maintain the high line Amorim demands. In the 1-1 draw, this hesitation allowed Inter's midfielders time to turn in the half-spaces and distribute out wide without immediate pressure.
If Milan are to convert pre-season flashes into sustained dominance, the execution of the mid-block press must become seamless. The talent in the squad is evident, but tactical discipline in the transition phase will determine whether this project takes flight early in the campaign.
Final Call
Expect Amorim to double down on pressing drills over the final week of preparation. Milan have the raw tools to dictate games, but unless they eliminate lingering defensive lapses, their opening league fixtures will be far more uncomfortable than necessary. My prediction: Milan refine their shape just in time to secure a gritty 2-1 victory in their upcoming season opener.
