AC Milan’s Preseason Preparations
AC Milan’s preseason preparations will not include new acquisitions Luka Modric and Mexican striker Santiago Gimenez, as announced by head coach Massimiliano Allegri. The team is set to embark on a nine-day tour in the Asia-Pacific region, where they will participate in three friendly matches.
Tour Schedule
Starting on Wednesday, they will compete against Arsenal in Singapore, followed by a clash with Liverpool, the Premier League champions, in Hong Kong on July 28. The tour will culminate with a match against Perth Glory on July 31 in Australia.
Player Updates
Modric, 39, has opted to take a break following his participation in the Club World Cup with Real Madrid. Just last week, he made headlines by signing with AC Milan as a free agent, leaving Madrid as their all-time most decorated player, boasting an impressive 28 titles. Coach Allegri expressed enthusiasm about Modric’s imminent joining, stating:
“We anticipate his arrival on August 4. He exemplifies a champion’s spirit and will undoubtedly enhance both our technical skills and leadership qualities.”
Santiago Gimenez, who joined AC Milan from Feyenoord in February, is also expected to begin preseason training on the same day as Modric. The Mexican forward recently enjoyed success with his national team, helping them secure their 10th Gold Cup trophy earlier this month. During his time in Milan, Gimenez scored five goals in 14 league appearances.
Season Objectives
Last season, Milan finished eighth in Serie A, falling short of a qualifying spot for European competitions. Allegri underlined the club’s objective for the upcoming season, stating:
“Our primary goal is to regain a place in the Champions League, which will be a demanding task given the level of competition within Italy.”
Allegri’s recent return to the club marks his second tenure after previously leading Milan to the league title in 2011, following the dismissal of Sérgio Conceição.
