AC Milan have officially launched their 2025–26 campaign as players begin to report to Milanello for medical tests and preseason preparations under returning head coach Massimiliano Allegri.
The new chapter, dubbed “Allegri bis”, marks the start of the former Juventus manager’s second stint in charge of the Rossoneri. Allegri will be formally unveiled in a press conference scheduled for July 7 at 13:00, the same day that full squad training officially gets underway.
In the meantime, a first wave of players arrived at the club’s training headquarters on Friday for initial fitness assessments. Among those present were Gabbia, Chukwueze, Loftus-Cheek, Jimenez, Bondo, Sportiello, Pobega, Bartesaghi, Nava, Emerson Royal, Colombo, Okafor, Comotto, Terracciano, Vos, and new signing Samuele Ricci. A second group of players is expected on Saturday, while those who featured for their national teams in June, including Mike Maignan, Pavlovic, Saelemaekers, and Rafael Leão, will join the squad on Monday.
From Sunday midnight, all players will be required to remain on-site at Milanello, with mandatory overnight stays at the training facility to foster team unity from the outset. Allegri has outlined a clear and intense preseason programme, beginning with double daily training sessions behind closed doors starting Monday. The goal is to build fitness and tactical cohesion quickly while laying down clear expectations for discipline and togetherness.
The focus, according to club sources, is on meticulous preparation, ranging from technical drills and recovery sessions to controlled diets and structured sleep schedules. Allegri’s mission is not only to restore Milan’s competitive edge but to instil a new mentality after a turbulent and underwhelming season.
On the transfer front, new sporting director Igli Tare remains active, with Milan reportedly targeting Italy striker Mateo Retegui as their next key addition. Meanwhile, interest from Saudi Arabia continues to circle Atalanta, which could indirectly influence Milan’s transfer plans.
Milan’s preseason will include a five-match international tour featuring high-profile friendlies. The Rossoneri open against Arsenal on July 23 in Singapore, followed by a clash with Liverpool in Hong Kong on July 26. They then head to Australia to face Perth Glory on July 31. Their tour wraps up with back-to-back matches against Leeds United and Chelsea on August 9 and 10, respectively.
The season begins in earnest with a Coppa Italia tie against Bari at San Siro on August 17, before Milan host Cremonese in their Serie A opener on August 23 at 20:45 local time.
As the Allegri era begins anew, Milan will be hoping for more than just a reset, they’ll be aiming for a revival.
