As AC Milan embarks on its highly anticipated 2025 pre-season tour across Asia and Australia, the Rossoneri faithful eagerly await glimpses of the squad shaping up under Massimiliano Allegri. The official list of travelling players has been revealed, and while it features a strong contingent of established stars and fresh faces, two prominent names are conspicuously absent: Luka Modric and Santiago Gimenez. This isn`t a case of unexpected transfers or disciplinary woes, but rather a strategic decision reflecting player welfare and the demands of modern football.
The Calculated Omission of Star Power
The absence of Luka Modric, Milan`s recent high-profile acquisition, and Santiago Gimenez, another significant new recruit, has certainly raised eyebrows among some fans. However, the reasons provided by the club are entirely logical and underscore a pragmatic approach to player management.
Modric, the Croatian maestro, has been granted extended time off following his rigorous participation in the FIFA Club World Cup earlier this month in the United States. Similarly, Mexican international Santiago Gimenez is still enjoying his personal holidays after competing in the Gold Cup. In an era where player burnout is a legitimate concern, granting these crucial players additional rest ensures they return fully recuperated, mitigating the risk of early-season injuries and optimizing their performance for the long domestic and European campaigns ahead. It`s a testament to a club prioritising long-term fitness over immediate, albeit exciting, exhibition appearances.
Allegri`s Early Roster Decisions: Beyond the Headlines
While the focus often gravitates towards star players, Allegri`s squad selection for the pre-season tour also offers insights into the wider team dynamics and potential squad restructuring. Several other players still under contract with Milan have not been included, each with specific justifications:
- Emerson Royal: The right-back is currently in recovery from an injury, and his exclusion is a sensible precaution to prevent aggravation.
- Tommaso Pobega: His absence signals an impending permanent move to Bologna, indicating clarity in his future outside Milan.
- Ismael Bennacer, Yacine Adli, and Devis Vasquez: These players are reportedly on the verge of being sold and have not yet integrated into Allegri`s training sessions at Milan. Their omission from the tour solidifies the club`s intent to offload them, allowing them to pursue new opportunities and streamlining the squad for the new season.
These decisions, though seemingly minor, collectively paint a picture of a management team methodically trimming the squad and focusing resources on those who will be central to Allegri`s vision.
A Global Stage for Emerging Talent
Perhaps the most exciting aspect of this pre-season tour, especially with established names resting, is the invaluable opportunity it presents for Milan`s burgeoning young talents. More than just exhibition matches, this tour serves as a crucial audition for these prospects, allowing them to train and compete alongside senior professionals and impress coach Allegri on an international platform.
Players such as goalkeepers Lorenzo Torriani and Noah Raveyre, centre-back Matteo Dutu, full-back Vittorio Magni, midfielder Christian Comotto, and forward Mattia Liberali will gain unparalleled exposure. This strategic inclusion of youth underscores Milan`s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent and potentially identifying future first-team regulars who might otherwise remain in the shadows.
Confirmed Milan Squad for 2025 Pre-Season Tour
Despite the notable exclusions, the squad travelling to Asia and Australia is robust and capable of delivering competitive performances against formidable opponents like Arsenal in Singapore (July 23), Liverpool in Hong Kong (July 26), and Perth Glory in Western Australia (July 31). Key figures such as Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic are included, ready to lead the charge.
Goalkeepers:
- Maignan
- P. Terracciano
- Torriani
- Raveyre
Defenders:
- Gabbia
- Tomori
- Thiaw
- Pavlovic
- Jimenez
- Bartesaghi
- Dutu
- Magni
Midfielders:
- Ricci
- Fofana
- Musah
- Bondo
- Loftus-Cheek
- Pulisic
- Saelemaekers
- Comotto
Forwards:
- Leao
- Colombo
- Chukwueze
- Liberali
- Okafor
Beyond the Matches: Strategic Objectives of the Tour
The pre-season tour is more than just a series of friendly matches. For AC Milan, it represents a multifaceted strategic exercise. It is an opportunity for:
- Tactical Implementation: Allegri can begin to fully integrate his tactical philosophy and evaluate how new signings like Samuele Ricci and Pietro Terracciano fit into his plans.
- Team Cohesion: Extended periods together on the road foster stronger team bonds and chemistry, crucial for a demanding season.
- Global Brand Building: Showcasing the Rossoneri brand in key international markets strengthens the club`s commercial reach and global fanbase.
- Player Assessment: For fringe players and youngsters, it`s a critical period to demonstrate their capabilities and earn a spot in the core squad.
In conclusion, while the absence of Modric and Gimenez might initially disappoint some, it is a calculated decision rooted in player welfare. The 2025 pre-season tour is a crucial phase for AC Milan, not just for match practice, but for tactical development, squad integration, and the invaluable showcasing of emerging talent under the watchful eye of Massimiliano Allegri. The stage is set for a pivotal summer in the Rossoneri`s preparations for the season ahead.
